Sanctuary saga ends in sorrow: Beloved elephant Mali passing leaves fans trumpeting for change

Mali, a beloved elephant at a Philippine zoo has died after plans fell through to relocate the animal to a sanctuary following a worldwide campaign supported by indie rock star Morrissey, former lead singer of The Smiths.

Mali, the star attraction at Manila Zoo for over four decades, was found dead on November 28. Raised in solitary confinement since her arrival from Sri Lanka at just 11 months old, the 43 year old elephant lived a life under the scrutiny of animal rights activists.

Critics argued that she endured solitary confinement in a concrete enclosure, igniting a global campaign to relocate her to an animal sanctuary.

Catholic bishops, a global pop star, and a Nobel laureate all rallied behind Mali, pushing for her transfer, claiming she had been mistreated. Manila City Mayor Honey Lacuna expressed her sorrow at Mali’s demise, recalling Mali’s role as the prized possession and star attraction at the zoo.

Despite mounting pressure, Lacuna defended the zoo’s decision, asserting that Mali wouldn’t have survived outside after decades in captivity.

Following Mali’s demise, an autopsy revealed she had pancreatic cancer, according to zoo veterinarian Heinrich Domingo, dispelling accusations of neglect. However, social media erupted with grief and condemnation, accusing the zoo and government officials of ignoring Mali’s apparent foot problems.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) accused them of subjecting Mali to torturous conditions throughout her nearly 50 years of life.

PETA initiated a campaign in 2005 to liberate Mali, gaining support from influential figures such as British pop star Morrissey, renowned animal welfare advocate Jane Goodall, Nobel laureate J.M. Coetzee, and local bishops. Letters flooded the Philippine government, appealing for Mali’s transfer to a sanctuary in Thailand. The campaign, however, faced staunch resistance from zoo officials, who stood firm in their decision to keep Mali in Manila, reported Thai PBS World.

Mayor Lacuna defended the zoo’s actions, stating that Mali would not have been able to survive outside due to her extended captivity. While critics argued that her death was a result of years of neglect, Lacuna announced that the Sri Lankan officials had offered to replace Mali after her passing. Controversially, Mali’s skeleton is destined for display at the zoo museum.