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Buddhist leader facing sexual misconduct allegations is ‘embarrassed and thoroughly apologetic’

Source: The Star Halifax

By Brett Bundale

HALIFAX—International Buddhist leader Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche is apologizing for the “pain, confusion and anger” sweeping through the Shambhala community amid sexual misconduct allegations against the Nova Scotia-based spiritual leader.

Mipham, who has stepped back from his duties pending the outcome of a third-party investigation, said in a letter Tuesday that he takes responsibility for the pain the Buddhist community is experiencing.

Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche, left, and his bride Princess Tseyang Palmo. The spiritual leader of an international Buddhist organization based in Halifax is stepping back from his duties pending the outcome of an independent investigation into sexual misconduct allegations against him.
Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche, left, and his bride Princess Tseyang Palmo. The spiritual leader of an international Buddhist organization based in Halifax is stepping back from his duties pending the outcome of an independent investigation into sexual misconduct allegations against him.  (Andrew Vaughan / THE CANADIAN PRESS)

“In a state of complete heartbreak, I write to you, humble, embarrassed, and thoroughly apologetic for disappointing you,” the 55-year-old guru said.

“I am committed to engaging with women and others in our community who have felt marginalized, beginning this week. I will be using this time of self-reflection to deeply listen and to better understand how the dynamics of power, gender and my actions have affected others.”

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Categories: Americas, Buddhists, Canada, Sexual Abuse, The Muslim Times

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