Exiled Tibetans vote to choose leaders for a homeland many have never seen

Exiled Tibetans in 27 countries began voting for a government-in-exile to select parliamentary candidates and a leader, with a final round set for April 26 and results due May 13; China condemned the elections as a "farce."

Exiled Tibetans began voting in a coordinated election across 27 countries on Sunday for a government-in-exile that represents a homeland many have not seen. The Central Tibetan Administration, based in Dharamsala, says the vote is a meaningful democratic exercise for the diaspora. Voting will not take place inside China, which has criticised the process. The election follows changes in the community since the Dalai Lama handed over political power in 2011. Key facts: - Voting is taking place in 27 countries, but not in China, and began on Sunday. - There are about 91,000 registered voters in the diaspora who can take part in the process. - The five-year parliament has 45 members: 30 from three traditional provinces, 10 representing five religious traditions, and five representing the diaspora. - The current vote selects candidates ahead of a final round on April 26, and official results are due May 13. - Voters will cast paper ballots; Election Commission chief Lobsang Yeshi alleged past attempts by China to interfere, including cyber-espionage. - Around 56,000 registered voters live in India, Nepal and Bhutan; roughly 34,000 are spread across other countries, including about 12,000 in North America and 8,000 in Europe. Summary: Supporters say the election reaffirms democratic participation and institutional continuity for the exile community, and it will determine the Central Tibetan Administration's parliamentary membership and sikyong for the coming term. The vote is scheduled to advance to a final round on April 26, with results announced on May 13.