We first discussed the possibility here back in December; would the Dalai Lama soon be retiring some of his duties? It seems that the time has come. In an announcement given this morning, His Holiness said he will formally propose next week that he retire his political role in Tibet. The idea is to strengthen the possibility of a more democratic Tibet via a new generation of leaders.
“My desire to devolve authority has nothing to do with a wish to shirk responsibility. It is to benefit Tibetans in the long run.” For more, see this report by the New York Times.
Video of the Dalai Lama’s speech as it was given in Tibetan (marking the 52nd anniversary of the Tibetan national uprising day) has been made available. You can watch it here or read a full English transcription after the jump.
