Dharamshala: The Kashag of the Central Tibetan Administration has issued a press statement expressing its deep concern over the arson attack on the Office of Tibet in Pretoria, South Africa, on 14 October 2026.
The statement reads:
We express our deep concern over the arson attack on the Office of Tibet, Pretoria, South Africa, on 14 October 2026. The attack follows a similar incident on 6 July 2026, the 91st birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, although the earlier incident caused comparatively less damage.
We are relieved that the Representative and staff were able to escape unharmed. Nevertheless, the incident raises serious concerns regarding their safety and security, as well as the protection of the Office and its premises.
We acknowledge the response of the South African emergency services and the South African Police Service. We respectfully urge the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough, impartial, and timely investigation, bring those responsible to justice in accordance with the law, and take appropriate measures to prevent any recurrence.
Guided by the universal principles of peace, compassion, dialogue, and nonviolence, we reaffirm our respect for the institutions and laws of the Republic of South Africa. We trust that this matter will be addressed through due legal process and that the necessary steps will be taken to ensure their safety and security and the continued functioning of the Office.
We sincerely hope for a timely resolution of this matter and express our appreciation to the Government and relevant authorities of the Republic of South Africa for their attention and assistance.
KASHAG
October 20, 2026
