The loss of Kavantissa, following the tragic deaths of other iconic tuskers, including Bhathiya, raises serious concerns about the safety of Sri Lanka’s remaining wild elephants, the effectiveness of wildlife protection measures, and the accountability of responsible authorities.
We respectfully urge the President to take immediate action on the following demands:
Appoint an Independent Expert Investigation Panel
Establish an impartial panel comprising reputed local and international wildlife veterinarians, elephant conservation specialists, scientists, and independent experts to determine the exact cause and circumstances of Kavantissa’s death, including any possible negligence, failures in protection, or unlawful activities.
Ensure Accountability and Legal Action
Investigate any negligence, misconduct, or violations of wildlife protection laws identified through the investigation and take appropriate disciplinary or legal action against those responsible.
Strengthen Protection Against Wildlife Crimes
Intensify enforcement against illegal firearms, traps, unauthorized electric fences, and other threats to wild elephants. Introduce stricter monitoring of firearms issued for crop protection in human-elephant conflict areas.
Reform Wildlife Emergency Response and Veterinary Services
Establish effective national protocols for injured and endangered elephants, strengthen veterinary facilities and emergency response units, and enable collaboration with universities, independent specialists, and other relevant institutions.
Guarantee Transparency and Public Accountability
Publish the investigation’s findings, relevant post-mortem and incident reports, and recommendations for corrective action, ensuring that the public is informed and meaningful reforms are implemented.
We further request that the Government take prompt and decisive action to appoint an independent investigation panel, publicly communicate its findings, and implement the necessary measures to ensure accountability and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Kavantissa’s death must not become another forgotten tragedy.
We cannot bring Kavantissa back. But we can honour his life by uncovering the truth, demanding accountability, and ensuring that no more of Sri Lanka’s magnificent tuskers are lost through preventable causes.
We call upon the President to act in the interest of Sri Lanka’s wildlife, natural heritage, and future generations.
For Kavantissa. For our elephants. For Sri Lanka’s natural heritage.
Sign this petition and stand for truth, accountability and the protection of our living natural heritage.