Mekelle፡ October 8,2024 (Tigray Herald)
Mandatory Mental Health Screening for Tigray Political Leaders: A Critical Measure for National Security and Stability
In light of recent disturbing trends observed in the behavior and public statements of several Tigrayan political leaders, particularly those aligned with the failed Debretsion Gebremichael splinter group, it has become clear that the mental well-being of these leaders must be scrutinized. The political leadership in Tigray holds immense responsibility, especially in this delicate post-genocide phase. However, there is growing evidence to suggest that some of these individuals may not be in the right state of mind to make decisions that serve the best interests of the Tigrayan people.
The solution to this alarming situation is straightforward: mental health screening must become a legal requirement for all political leaders in Tigray. This policy is not only necessary to protect the national security interests of Tigray but is also essential to ensure that the future of the region is guided by leaders who are both mentally and emotionally fit to govern.
Mental Health and Political Leadership: A Necessity, Not an Option
The role of political leaders is more complex and demanding than ever before, especially in a post-genocide society like Tigray. The psychological burden on leaders who have navigated through war, destruction, and deep societal trauma is immense. Tigrayan political leaders need to be emotionally stable, mentally fit, and capable of making sound, rational decisions.
However, recent media appearances and public addresses by members of the Debretsion Gebremichael splinter group have raised serious concerns. Their erratic statements, unprecedented behavior, and lack of coherence have led many to question whether these individuals are in the right psychological state to lead. Their actions and rhetoric do not align with the level of responsibility required in this period of Tigray’s recovery. For many, it is evident that their mental health is compromised, which could be the result of untreated trauma or other psychological issues stemming from the devastating events Tigray has endured.
The Risks of Neglecting Mental Health
Failing to address the mental health of Tigray’s political leadership could have far-reaching consequences. Leaders who are mentally unstable are prone to making irrational decisions that could jeopardize national security, destabilize governance, and disrupt the delicate peace process currently underway. The integrity and future of Tigray are at risk if mentally unfit individuals remain in power.
There is also the risk of these leaders’ emotional volatility impacting their ability to engage in constructive dialogue, handle negotiations with external actors, or respond to crises effectively. The recent shocking public behavior exhibited by some Tigrayan politicians is a red flag that cannot be ignored. If left unchecked, this could lead to political chaos, diplomatic fallout, and potentially irreversible harm to Tigray’s national interests.
Mental Health Screening: A Vital Solution
To safeguard Tigray’s future, it is crucial to implement mandatory mental health screening and regular check-ups for all political leaders. This policy would ensure that leaders undergo a comprehensive mental health evaluation, conducted by licensed professionals, and their fitness to lead is publicly disclosed. Such transparency would restore trust in the political system and ensure that only mentally stable individuals hold positions of power.
Key components of the proposed mental health screening program include:
Regular Mental Health Assessments: All political leaders must undergo mental health evaluations at regular intervals. This should include psychological testing, interviews with mental health professionals, and assessments of their emotional and cognitive functioning.
Public Disclosure: The results of these assessments should be disclosed to the public. The people of Tigray have the right to know whether their leaders are mentally and emotionally fit to govern.
Accountability: Leaders found to be mentally unfit should be required to step down from their positions and seek professional help. It is imperative that they recognize and accept their limitations, acknowledging that they are not in a psychological state to lead.
International Expertise: Given the sensitive nature of post-genocide trauma, it may be necessary to seek professional mental health assistance from abroad. International experts in trauma and political leadership can provide the necessary support, guidance, and interventions to ensure that Tigray’s leaders receive the best possible care.
Legal Mandates: Mental health screening should be legally mandated as part of the requirements for holding public office in Tigray. This would prevent mentally unstable individuals from assuming positions of power, ensuring that Tigray’s governance remains stable and focused on recovery and progress.
Mental Health and National Security
Mental health is a critical aspect of national security. Leaders who are emotionally unstable or suffering from untreated trauma pose a direct threat to the security and stability of Tigray. Their decisions—whether on military strategy, economic reform, or peace negotiations—affect the lives of millions. If their judgment is clouded by mental health issues, the entire nation could suffer the consequences.
The political dynamics in Tigray are already fragile. The last thing the region needs is for its leaders to be incapacitated by psychological problems while handling critical issues like peace-building, international relations, and post-war reconstruction. Tigray cannot afford to be led by individuals who are mentally unfit and incapable of making rational decisions.
Key Messages and Slogans
“Mental Fitness Equals Leadership Fitness”: Only mentally fit leaders can guide Tigray towards recovery.
“Mental Health Screening: A Safeguard for Tigray’s Future”: Protecting Tigray’s national security by ensuring mentally stable leadership.
“A Sound Mind for a Sound Nation”: Leaders must be psychologically fit to lead Tigray through its most critical moments.
“Trauma Needs Treatment, Not Power”: Mentally unfit leaders must seek help, not hold on to power.
“Mental Health First, National Interest First”: Screening leaders ensures Tigray’s best interests are always prioritized.
Seeking Professional Help from Abroad
Tigray’s political leaders, especially those suffering from post-genocide trauma, must have access to the best possible mental health care. This might involve bringing in experts from abroad who have experience working with post-conflict societies and political leadership. Professionals from countries that have experienced genocide, like Rwanda, Bosnia, or Israel, could provide valuable insights and therapeutic interventions to address the deep psychological scars that have been left behind.
By bringing in international mental health experts, Tigray can ensure that its leaders are receiving care that is not only specialized but also informed by global best practices. This is especially important as the region navigates its way through recovery, reconciliation, and rebuilding.
Conclusion
The need for mental health screening in Tigray’s political leadership is urgent and unavoidable. Mentally unstable leaders represent a significant threat to Tigray’s security, stability, and future recovery. The erratic and unprecedented behavior exhibited by certain political figures is a clear sign that not all those in power are mentally fit to lead.
Implementing mandatory mental health screenings and making them a legal requirement for all political leaders is the only way to ensure that Tigray is led by individuals who are psychologically and emotionally capable of making sound decisions. This policy would not only protect the people of Tigray but also restore faith in its political institutions.
If this issue is not addressed, Tigray’s future will remain in jeopardy. It is time for the people of Tigray to demand leadership that is mentally sound, responsible, and fit to handle the challenges that lie ahead.
