Dear Friends,

It has been brought to the attention of the FPMT Inc. Board that some distressing social media posts have been made regarding the situation of Osel Hita, and our involvement with him.

Many of the statements made are factually incorrect or misguided, and are causing confusion, deep concern, and rifts within the FPMT community. This is very sad as many good-hearted and sincerely motivated friends are assuming ill intent of those involved.

As we shared in a letter to the directors of FPMT centers, projects and services a few months ago, the Board has supported Osel consistently throughout his life and will make every attempt to continue to support him in whatever way is appropriate, with the motivation to do what is best for Osel and the greater FPMT organization.

We wish to correct one misconception that has surfaced and that is that the FPMT “suddenly” cut off its support of Osel. This is untrue. We were in close communication with Osel and stated clearly that we could not approve of alarming behavior that was brought to our attention. We were in a dialogue with Osel and stated emphatically that if his behavior did not change—meaning if he did not receive professional full-time residential outside help for his ongoing issues, which we, and others close to him, felt, and still feel, is crucial to restore his health—then we would need to cut off his financial support and could not endorse his activities in centers at this time. The FPMT was, and is, fully committed to paying for full-time residential treatment, should Osel be willing to accept this offer for his well-being. However, since Osel declined to engage in such treatment, but requested we not discontinue payment immediately, a final one month payment was sent, before we suspended funding. 

The FPMT is fully committed to paying Osel’s son Norbu’s school fees. We have attempted to pay the school directly, as a new arrangement. There has been an administrative delay, not due to the side of FPMT. The school is aware that this new payment system is in process. There has been no interference in Norbu attending his school.

Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that the Board has a responsibility towards the entire FPMT organization, which includes the 132 centers, projects, teachers and students; as well as the numerous patrons who generously give donations toward furthering Rinpoche’s and Lama’s vision for the FPMT organization. We will make every attempt to balance these two responsibilities of looking after the organization and Osel’s well-being. Because of the numerous concerns and complaints with respect to Osel’s behavior and speech, the FPMT Inc. Board has stipulated some conditions in order for Osel to demonstrate stability and accountability in his life. These conditions were discussed with him several times over a long period of time. Lama Zopa Rinpoche, while alive, was completely informed about and shared the concerns with respect to Osel. Rinpoche spoke with Osel many times giving guidance and advice as did other teachers. Rinpoche gave the Board clear advice on how to deal with the events that were presented to the board, and he expressed that money offered to the organization by kind donors should be used ethically, and in accordance with the principles of Dharma.

Please understand that the Board, out of respect for Osel’s reputation and well-being, is not disclosing details that have informed its decisions. At this stage, for the benefit of all involved including Osel himself, and, in particular, to avoid any unnecessary risk of dividing our extended community further, we will refrain from sharing specific details of the issues at hand, as they relate to sensitive matters concerning Osel’s personal life.  

As we have shared with Osel, it is the hope of the FPMT Inc. Board that Osel will show his willingness to adhere to FPMT ethical guidelines and policies and to display appropriate behavior and decision-making that is consistent with our mission and values, so that if he so wishes he can continue to benefit others from within the FPMT mandala in the future. We have absolutely no wish for Osel to be outside of the FPMT mandala.

We fully understand how distressing this situation is for those who care deeply about Osel and are concerned for his health and safety. We care deeply for Osel as well, and have no motivation to harm him in any way or exclude him from support permanently. We do hope some of the information we have shared here will help broaden the full picture a bit, as these situations can become extremely divisive so quickly.

During these Fifteen Days of Miracles, we pray for harmony and peace within the entire FPMT organization and for all obstacles to Osel’s health and well-being be removed without delay.

Sincerely, 

The FPMT Inc. Board of Directors:
Khenrinpoche Geshe Chonyi, Abbot of Kopan Monastery
Ven. Thubten Pemba Sherpa
Ven. Roger Kunsang
Karuna Cayton, Chairperson, Board of FPMT Inc. 
Dale Davis
Paula de Wys