Detention of Gonmo Kyi and Husband Choekyong Raises Concerns Amid Ongoing Tibetan Activism

LHASA, 14 December 2023 – In a concerning turn of events, Gonmo Kyi, the sister of Tibetan political prisoner Dorjee Tashi, and her husband Choekyong were reportedly detained earlier today by security personnel in Lhasa. The detention followed their visit to the Lhasa People’s Court, where they sought a retrial for Dorjee Tashi, imprisoned since 2008.

Sources indicate that Gonmo Kyi and Choekyong arrived at the court with a letter, urging officials to reconsider the case of Dorjee Tashi, who is serving a life sentence on charges of “loan fraud,” a charge vehemently contested by him and his family. The couple also requested permission to meet with Dorjee Tashi, a promise allegedly made by authorities in the past.

However, instead of receiving a response to their plea, Gonmo Kyi and Choekyong were arrested by security personnel and taken to a police station in Lhasa. The current status and location of the detained couple remain unknown, raising concerns among activists and human rights groups.

Dorjee Tashi, a hotel owner, has been incarcerated since July 2008 and has reportedly endured torture during his imprisonment. His family has persistently called for a retrial, alleging unfair treatment and contesting the validity of the charges against him.

Gonmo Kyi, in response to her brother’s imprisonment, has been actively protesting in Lhasa, demanding the right to see her brother and urging authorities to reconsider his case. However, these efforts have been met with suppression by the authorities. All information, photos, and videos related to Gonmo Kyi’s protests have allegedly been censored since August 2023, hindering transparency regarding her activities.

Additionally, there have been reports of violent treatment towards Gonmo Kyi, including incidents of assault. In August, she was reportedly assaulted, requiring hospital treatment that was allegedly denied to her. Earlier this year, in March, Gonmo Kyi faced detention and physical abuse.

The current situation underscores the challenges faced by Tibetan activists and the suppression of dissenting voices in the region. Human rights organizations are closely monitoring developments, calling for the immediate release of Gonmo Kyi and Choekyong and urging authorities to address the grievances raised by the Tashi family regarding Dorjee Tashi’s case.