The World’s Saddest Elephant, Mali, Dies in Manila Zoo Due to Negligence: Outrage and Criticism Ensue

Accident – Death – Obituary News : The elephant known as “Mali,” often referred to as the “World’s Saddest” elephant, has tragically passed away at the Manila Zoo in the Philippines, where it spent its entire life in a confined space. Mali, who was the sole elephant in the country, has been the center of attraction at the zoo for decades, but her death has sparked both tributes and criticism due to alleged negligence.

Animal rights activists have long expressed outrage over Mali’s living conditions and the neglect she faced at the zoo. Renowned figures such as Sir Paul McCartney have been vocal advocates for her transfer to a sanctuary where she could experience a better quality of life. However, their pleas went unanswered, and Mali remained in captivity, enduring a solitary existence.

The news of Mali’s passing was announced by Mayor Honey Lacuna on Facebook, who also shared her personal connection to the elephant, recalling the joy she experienced during childhood visits to the zoo. Dr. Heinrich Patrick Peña-Domingo, who had been observing Mali closely, noted her distress, evident in her constant nose rubbing against a wall.

In the days leading up to her death, Mali exhibited signs of illness, including heavy breathing and laying down for long periods. Zoo authorities administered antihistamines and vitamins in an attempt to alleviate her symptoms. Unfortunately, their efforts proved futile, as Mali was discovered lifeless later on. The autopsy revealed a blocked aorta and organ cancer as the primary causes of her demise.

Mali’s journey to the Manila Zoo began in 1981 when she was brought to the Philippines from Sri Lanka as a gift to the then First Lady, Imelda Marcos. Initially, she had a companion named Shiva, but after Shiva’s passing in 1990, Mali became the zoo’s solitary elephant.

Critics argue that the zoo neglected Mali’s medical needs, while the zoo itself justified her lifelong captivity by claiming that releasing her was not a viable option. Despite the efforts of influential figures like Sir Paul McCartney and Morrissey, who urged authorities to transfer Mali to a sanctuary, their pleas fell on deaf ears.

Following Mali’s death, PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) expressed deep sorrow, referring to her as one of the world’s saddest elephants. Social media platforms were flooded with condolences from individuals who recalled their encounters with Mali during visits to the Manila Zoo.

In the wake of calls to end the practice of keeping elephants in zoos, the Manila government announced plans to request another elephant from the Sri Lankan government. However, Mali’s transfer to a sanctuary was never seriously considered, leaving her long-time caretakers grieving over her loss.

Mayor Lacuna concluded by acknowledging that despite being a loner, Mali had become an integral part of the zoo staff’s lives, always greeting everyone with joy. The legacy of the “World’s Saddest” elephant will be remembered, despite the sorrow that accompanies her passing.

[Video Description: The article includes a video titled “Elephant trapped in agricultural pond safely rescued by Forest Officials in TN.” The video depicts forest officials rescuing an elephant trapped in a pond. The video is embedded within the article.].