Opposition Calls for Parliamentary Select Committee to Investigate Death of Elephant Kawanthissa

The motion was submitted under the leadership of Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, with signatures from opposition MPs, requesting a parliamentary inquiry to establish the facts surrounding the elephant’s death, determine whether all relevant parties fulfilled their responsibilities, and seek justice in connection with the incident.

Speaking on the matter, Premadasa stressed that the investigation should not be limited to examining the circumstances of Kawanthissa’s death. He said measures were also needed to protect the elephants that remain in the country.

He emphasised that the issue should be addressed without political divisions, highlighting the importance of safeguarding the country’s elephant population.

Premadasa also proposed that the special committee be established with co-chairpersons representing both the government and the Opposition.

He pointed to the Parliamentary Committee on Climate Change, which he said operates successfully with cross-party co-chairmanship, as an example of how a similar arrangement could be adopted for the proposed inquiry.

The Opposition’s request now calls for parliamentary consideration of a dedicated mechanism to examine the circumstances surrounding Kawanthissa’s death and address wider concerns about elephant protection in Sri Lanka.