Locally, a mock re-enactment of Tenzin Delek's arbitrary arrest, detention, and secret trial will take place in front of the Chinese consulate to demonstrate the widespread belief that he is the victim of China¡¦s efforts to suppress Tibetans' political, cultural, and religious expression. Local activists are also organizing an 8-day sit-in outside the Chinese consulate, from Dec 2-10, to pressure Chinese officials to do their utmost to ensure Tenzin Delek is not executed.

Rally and Candle light vigil organized by the local chapter of Students for a Free Tibet

"We are requesting the Canadian government intervene to prevent Tenzin Delek Rinpoche's execution and ensure he is immediately released", says Tsering Lama, an organizer with UBC Students for a Free Tibet. "Tenzin Delek's case is a clear example of how the Chinese government continues to deny basic human rights to Tibetans living under Chinese occupation."

Tenzin Delek Rinpoche was sentenced to death in December 2002 on false bombing charges. The two-year reprieve on his death sentence expires on December 2, 2004. According to Human Rights Watch and other human rights monitoring agencies, there is no evidence that Tenzin Delek Rinpoche is guilty of this crime. His work to provide people with social amenities, such as schools, medical clinics, and homes for orphans and the elderly made him unpopular with local authorities, who perceived his popularity amongst Tibetans and local Chinese as a threat to their control in the region.