Sajith Premadasa Calls for Independent, Transparent Investigation into the Death of Tusker Kawanthissa

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has called for an independent and transparent investigation into the death of tusker Kawanthissa, stressing the need to strengthen wildlife conservation and protect Sri Lanka’s elephant population.

Premadasa also highlighted the importance of establishing an effective task force to address issues affecting elephants and to improve the country’s response to human-elephant conflict.

He emphasised that conservation measures should be based on scientific evidence, including research into the genetics and characteristics of tuskers, to support better protection of Sri Lanka’s elephant population.

Premadasa called for stronger coordination among the relevant authorities and improvements in veterinary care, legal protection and emergency response systems for elephants.

He also stressed the need for proper land-use planning and public education to reduce conflicts between people and elephants.

According to his position, protecting human lives and safeguarding elephants should be treated as equally important priorities. He called for practical, long-term measures to prevent further losses and improve wildlife conservation in Sri Lanka.

The call for an independent investigation was made amid wider concerns over elephant deaths and the effectiveness of existing wildlife protection measures.