Summary: Exile government says new Kashgar county may affect local governance and community structures in East Turkistan.
By The East Turkistan Post Staff | March 28, 2026
KASHGAR — East Turkistan, what Beijing calls “Xinjiang (New Territory),” has a new administrative unit. Chinese authorities have established Cenling County in Kashgar Prefecture. The East Turkistan Government in Exile (ETGE) has condemned the move, saying it could affect local governance and community structures.
State media confirmed the new county as part of administrative restructuring described as supporting governance efficiency and regional development. Kashgar is widely regarded as a historically significant cultural centre for Uyghur communities.
ETGE official calls county creation illegal
Salih Hudayar, identified as Minister of Foreign Affairs and Security of the East Turkistan Government in Exile, responded in a public statement. He said the establishment of Cenling County reflects broader administrative trends in East Turkistan.
“The creation of so-called ‘Cenling County’ is an illegal and unilateral act,” Hudayar said. He added that such measures relate directly to questions of governance and political status in the territory.
Hudayar also referenced earlier administrative changes. He said the creation of additional counties in recent years forms part of a wider policy direction affecting East Turkistan.
ETGE links new unit to governance and community concerns
The ETGE said new administrative divisions may influence local structures and population management. Moreover, the group stated that such changes could alter traditional community arrangements. They could also increase the presence of centrally appointed officials across the territory.
Researchers and policy analysts have previously noted that administrative restructuring in East Turkistan has occurred alongside broader development and governance initiatives. However, the specific impact of Cenling County has not been independently verified. Access restrictions inside East Turkistan continue to limit outside scrutiny.
Chinese authorities stated that administrative adjustments are intended to improve governance, economic coordination, and public services. Officials maintain that policies in East Turkistan comply with domestic law and contribute to stability and development.
Exile group urges international monitoring
The ETGE called on governments and international organisations to monitor administrative developments in East Turkistan. It also urged greater transparency and independent observer access to the territory.
Independent verification remains limited. Foreign media and researchers continue to face access restrictions across East Turkistan. As a result, the full implications of the new county cannot currently be confirmed from outside sources.
The East Turkistan Post is an independent news publication. All claims are attributed to their respective sources. Access restrictions inside East Turkistan limit independent on-the-ground verification.
