Speaking at the Parliamentary Forum on Climate Change, Sajith Premadasa said saving Sri Lanka's wildlife needs everyone on board, especially the younger generation.
While he praised the ongoing work featuring the security forces, the Ministry of Environment, and the Wild Tusker group, he said others deserve a seat at the table too. Photographers and environmentalists have helped track, name, and monitor wild tuskers, and their hard work should not be ignored.
Questions over tuskers and vet shortages
Premadasa took aim at the current scheme that focuses on just 17 tuskers. He claimed that many other animals in dire need of safety are being missed out, urging officials to protect every single one.
He also flagged a serious gap in medical care for wild beasts. Right now, only 17 wildlife veterinarians are on duty across the country, even though 33 are required. He urged the government to fill those empty posts fast.
Census fears and climate talks
The Opposition Leader sounded an alarm about future elephant surveys. He alleged that after previous counts, powerful people captured and domesticated wild elephants, claiming baby elephants were stolen from Minneriya National Park in the past.
The forum, co-chaired by Premadasa and Professor L. M. Abeywickrama, looked at broader environmental issues, from disaster prevention to using science-backed policies to shield the island's land, marine life, and forests.
