Tibetan PM candidate to appear in live debate

Three prominent contenders seeking to lead the next Tibetan government-in exile would appear in a debate hosted by a US-based broadcaster on Sunday which would be beamed live to Tibetans, including in Dhramshala.

Radio Free Asia's (RFA) Tibetan service will host the debate on radio, satellite television and the Internet.

While one of the three candidates vying to be prime minister (Kalon Tripa)-- Lobsang Sangay, Kasur Tenzin Namgyal Tethong and Tashi Wangdi -- will take part from Washington the other two from India at Dharamsala, the seat of the Tibetan government in exile, and the largest Tibetan refugee settlement in the southern town of Bylakuppe.

"Through this debate, Radio Free Asia provides a means for the Tibetan exile community worldwide to participate in a unique, democratic process that will affect the future of Tibetan affairs," said RFA president Libby Liu.

The debate is part of RFA's series of seven town hall-style events being held in Tibetan exile settlements in India ahead of the March 20 elections to replace outgoing prime minister-in-exile Samdhong Rinpoche.

The 75-year-old Dalai Lama recently announced that he would step down as political head of the exiled government, but would maintain his spiritual role.