Thupstan Chhewang, Former MP, Ladakh elected as the new president of Ladakh Buddhist Association on February 11.

Since its inception from the year 1934, the presidents of LBA were elected uncontested. This is for the first time the presidential election of LBA was contested between two candidates.   Thupstan Chhewang, Former MP, and Rinchen Namgyal, Former Vice President LBA were both in the poll fray.

A total of 345 votes cast, Thupstan Chhewang secured 270 votes, Rinchen Namgyal got 71 votes while 4 votes went rejected.

Thupstan Chhewang expressed gratitude to the Buddhist community of the Ladakh region for having faith and electing him as a President LBA, thus allowing serving people of Ladakh. 

He said, “There are so many challenges to Ladakh region after UT status and Apex Body run by veteran leaders will continue to work for the safeguard of the region. The apex body will be further strengthened, it will not fall weak and go out of track after taking charge of LBA”. 

He said, “Ladakh Buddhist Association is a prime organisation for the Buddhist community of the region and over the past so many years the organisation has played an extensive role for the welfare of Ladakh.”

He appreciated the blend of youth and experienced people as General Council members representing different regions of Ladakh. He said that the blend of young and old minds will help in the development of the region.  

There are 396 General Council Members (GCM) which includes 331 GCM from Leh district and 65 GCM from Kargil district.  Each GCM represents 300 Buddhist member populations from different regions of Ladakh. Out of 396 members, 345 members turn out on the voting day.

Talking about the priority set as a new president of LBA, Thupstan Chhewang said that the utmost need of the hour is to carry forward the safeguard demand of the region after Union Territory status. 

LBA election Returning Officer, Tsering Dorjay said, “As per the re-drafted constitution of LBA, the election for the post of President is held for the first time in a free and fair manner. The election process will be a benchmark for the future election process.”

Konchok Ishey Stak, President, LBA Youth wing congratulated Thupstan Chhewang for being elected as President LBA. He said that under the new leadership LBA will prosper and work more enthusiastically for the welfare of Buddhist communities.