By Tamia Nuna
The Chief Justice’s recent proposal to repeal section 226 of the Penal Code, which designates attempted suicide as a misdemeanor, is a significant step towards addressing the complex issue of mental health. The proposed amendment suggests the complete removal of the section, which previously imposed penalties such as a jail term of up to 2 years or a fine, or both, on those found guilty.
This proposal comes at a time when discussions around mental health have gained prominence across various aspects of life, including school, work, home, and relationships. Suicide is frequently highlighted as a major concern, with 75% of global suicide deaths occurring in low and middle-income countries (LMIC). Kenya, in particular, faces a significant challenge, with a suicide rate of 11 percent per 100,000 population.
To comprehensively address this issue, it is essential to explore the causes and risk factors associated with suicide, as well as the ongoing efforts to reduce suicide rates. Suicide is influenced by genetic, physiological, psychological, socioeconomic, and cultural factors. Previous studies have established a connection between mental health conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia with suicide. Additionally, genetic and personality factors, including neuroticism, contribute to an elevated suicide risk. Socioeconomic factors such as poverty, intimate partner violence, and stigma also play a role in suicide.
In the realm of suicide prevention, the World Health Organization has released an implementation guide featuring evidence-based recommendations. These include limiting access to means for suicide, responsible media reporting, promoting life skills in adolescents, and increasing access to care for individuals expressing suicidal behavior. Such interventions align with the Sustainable Development Goal of reducing suicide mortality by a third by 2030. The Kenyan government has also taken a proactive stance by launching a comprehensive suicide prevention strategic plan (2021-2026) with the goal of reducing suicide mortality by 10% by 2026.
While acknowledging the commendable efforts of the Kenyan government, it is crucial to recognize that suicide remains the fourth leading cause of death globally for individuals aged 15-29. Beyond prevention measures, providing rehabilitation and holistic follow-up care to survivors is essential. Penalizing individuals who have attempted suicide only perpetuates the stigma surrounding mental health conditions, diverting attention from addressing the root causes of the challenge. Moreover, such punitive measures discourage individuals from seeking help due to the fear of condemnation. Therefore, the removal of jail sentences for attempted suicide represents a positive shift in the right direction.
Tamia Nuna is a Youth Advocate at NAYA Kenya.
