In a tragic turn of events, Mali, also known as the “world’s saddest elephant,” has died after enduring years of confinement at Manila Zoo in the Philippines. The news of her passing was announced by the city’s mayor, Honey Lacuna, during a press conference. This comes just a day after the zoo’s chief veterinarian, Dr. Heinrich Patrick Peña-Domingo, confirmed that Mali had cancer in some of her organs and a blockage in her aorta, which ultimately led to her demise.
Key Takeaway
Mali, the “world’s saddest elephant,” has died after spending decades in confinement at Manila Zoo. Advocates and animal rights activists have long criticized the zoo’s conditions and called for Mali’s relocation to an animal sanctuary. Sadly, these efforts were in vain, and Mali’s tragic story highlights the urgent need for improved animal welfare standards.
A Life of Solitary Confinement
Mali’s life story is one of immense sadness. At a tender age of 11 months, she was gifted to the former Philippines first lady, Imelda Marcos, by the Sri Lankan government in 1981. Mali spent her early years at Manila Zoo in the company of another elephant named Shiva, who tragically passed away in 1990. Since then, Mali has been the only elephant in the zoo, living a solitary existence until her recent death.
Continuous Criticism and Advocacy
The conditions at Manila Zoo and the treatment of its animals have faced severe criticism from animal rights activists for many years. Mali’s case in particular has become a rallying point for advocates who have long argued that the zoo was ill-equipped to provide proper care for its inhabitants.
Renowned musicians and activists such as Paul McCartney, Pamela Anderson, and Dr. Jane Goodall have all lent their voice to the “Free Mali” movement, urging for her relocation to an animal sanctuary where she could experience a better quality of life. In 2013, Paul McCartney personally wrote to then Philippine President Benigno Aquino III, appealing for Mali’s transfer in order to end her suffering.
A Tragic End to a Life of Suffering
Despite the efforts and pleas from animal welfare groups like PETA, Mali’s plight never saw a resolution. The news of her passing has prompted an outpouring of grief, with PETA expressing their devastation and acknowledging that Mali should have had a better life.
