International Day of Action for Tenzin Delek Rinpoche

One year ago today, a Tibetan monk was sentenced to death for crimes he did not commit. Tenzin Delek Rinpoche, a highly respected Buddhist teacher, could be executed as soon as April 2004.

In 18 cities around the world today, protests are taking place at Chinese embassies and consulates, calling for Tenzin Delek Rinpoche’s death sentence to be overturned and for his release from prison. Please join us and act now to save this innocent man.

Sample Letter for Campaign

Subject: Overturn Tenzin Delek's death sentence.

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

A year ago today, Tenzin Delek Rinpoche's death sentence was upheld in a secret and closed trial. He could be executed as soon as April 2004.

Tenzin Delek Rinpoche is known and loved by Tibetans for his devotion to the social welfare of his community. He has been framed for crimes he did not commit because he is perceived as a threat to Chinese control over his area of Lithang, eastern Tibet.

I am deeply concerned to hear reports that he is being tortured, and that he could be executed in April 2004.

I urge you to immediately overturn Tenzin Delek Rinpoche's death sentence and release him from prison.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
January 24, 2004

Background Information

Tenzin Delek Rinpoche was arrested in April 2002 for alleged involvement in a series of explosions in eastern Tibet. He and another man, Lobsang Dhondup, were sentenced to death in December of that year. Both men were denied access to lawyers, and no credible evidence of their guilt was ever put forth. Their sentences were upheld in a secret trial on January 26, 2003, and Lobsang Dhondup was executed immediately after. Rinpoche could be executed as soon as April 7, 2004.

Tenzin Delek Rinpoche is known for his efforts to protect the environment and promote Tibetan religion and culture. He is beloved by Tibetans for his dedication to the social welfare of his community and has established numerous schools, orphanages, and monasteries in his home region of Lithang, eastern Tibet. It is widely believed that he has been framed because Chinese authorities view him as a threat to their control in the area.