🐘 President Appoints Expert Committee Following Death of Tusker ‘Kavanthissa’

• Incident & Probe: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has appointed an expert panel to investigate the death of wild tusker ‘Kavanthissa’, which occurred in Siyambalangamuwa around 16 October 2026. The committee will examine direct causes, treatment lapses, and potential negligence. • Committee Structure: Chaired by former Ministry Secretary A. H. Sarath Wijesinghe, the 6-member panel includes legal, environmental, and veterinary experts, coordinated by Additional Secretary to the President W. W. Harrison. The team is authorized to consult local and international experts. • Broader Conservation Mandate: Beyond the immediate inquiry, the committee is tasked with formulating standard operating procedures for wild elephant welfare and drafting recommendations for a comprehensive national elephant conservation program. • Timeline: A final report detailing findings, welfare protocols, and national conservation strategies is due to the President within 30 days.