Should A Leader Diagnosed With Mental Problems Control A Nuclear Arsenal?

Asif Ali Zardari

US Worried About Zardari's Control Of Pakistan's
Nuke Arsenal -- Rediff India Abroad

Several US officials have expressed concern over reports that Pakistan Peoples Party chief Asif Ali Zardari, who was diagnosed with mental problems as late as last year, will have partial control over Pakistan's nuclear arsenal if elected president, a media report said on Monday.

Though Zardari's spokespersons contend that he had been cured, the American officials were wary of Zardari having a partial control over Pakistan's nuclear arsenal if elected to the post in the September six presidential polls, Newsweek reported.

"Typically (the US) would not want that kind of person involved in a nuclear chain of command," said Pete Hoekstra, ranking Republican on the US House Intelligence Committee.

Doctors hired by Zardari had reportedly diagnosed him with problems like including dementia, depression and post traumatic stress disorder.

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My Comment: My first answer is no. Reason .... my father had these symptoms (World War II vet .... fought on the Russian front for four years) .... and I would certainly not feel comfortable if he had the thumb on the nuclear button.

I can also say the same about John McCain. Five years in a brutal prison camp is not a healthy lifestyle. I am sure that there are mental issues that he still needs to resolve .... even years after being in prison.

But when I reflect on this issue .... I realize that one should not be so critical. The experiences that these men went through can also be a benefit in that they will know better than most people on what could be the consequences if one pursues a war policy. I personally would rather have a leader who understands what war and pain is all about .... rather than a neophyte whose understanding of war is purely academic.