Central government has final word on Dalai Lama reincarnation, Xizang chairman says

In the matter of the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama, the central government has unquestionable ultimate decision-making authority. It's also a creed adhered to by the vast religious masses, Gama Cedain, chairman of the Xizang autonomous region, said on Tuesday.

The reincarnation of living Buddhas follows strict religious rituals and historical conventions. And in fact, the legitimacy of the title of the Dalai Lama originates from the central government, Gama Cedain said during a news conference held by the State Council Information Office.

"Reincarnation has never been solely determined by the Dalai Lama himself. The reincarnation of the Dalai Lama must strictly follow the principle of 'carrying out the search domestically, drawing of lots from a golden urn, and gaining approval by the central government', while complying with the country's laws and regulations," he said.