Dharmshala, 1 June 2026: Speaker-elect Dolma Tsering Teykhang and Deputy Speaker-elect Khenpo Sonam Tenphel of the 18th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile took their oaths of office from Tibetan Chief Justice Commissioner Yeshi Wangmo earlier today.

In the presence of Chief Justice Commissioner Yeshi Wangmo, Sikyong Penpa Tsering, Justice Commissioners Dawa Phunkyi and Phagpa Tsering, heads and members of the autonomous bodies, parliamentarians, and other dignitaries of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), the swearing-in ceremony commenced with prayers offered by monks of Neychung Monastery, followed by the offering of Mendrel Tensum and the serving of traditional sweetened rice and butter tea.

Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang becomes the first woman to serve as Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile. She previously served as Deputy Speaker of the 17th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile.

Khenpo Sonam Tenphel begins his second term as Deputy Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile. He previously served as Speaker of the 16th and 17th Tibetan Parliaments-in-Exile and as Deputy Speaker of the 15th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile.