By, Abdisalaan Gullied
In recent years, we have increasingly observed incidents involving individuals who perpetrate serious violations against innocent young children. The most recent case involved a woman who subjected a small child to extreme physical abuse—an incident that spread widely on social media—ultimately resulting in the child’s death. Shortly afterward, another case emerged involving a Qur’an teacher in Burco who was convicted after being accused of sexually abusing a young innocent child.
From the perspective of scientific and clinical understanding—particularly within the field of mental health and psychological collectively known as personality disorders—there are two conditions that appear to be indirectly reflected in the actions of these perpetrators.
The first disorder involves an individual who derives emotional gratification from consistently inflicting harm, pain, or excessive punishment on a young child. This may include severe beatings, assigning harsh tasks, or intentionally causing suffering under the guise of discipline. The woman whose video circulated widely, showing her brutally torturing a young child, serves as a clear example of this phenomenon.
Perpetrator in the court.
The second disorder also falls under the broad category of personality disorders but is more specifically associated with sexual disorders, a subgroup within this field This disorder involves seeking sexual gratification through inappropriate or abnormal means. While there are many forms of such conditions, the incident concerning the Qur’an teacher in Burco corresponds to a disorder in which an adult is sexually attracted to very young children who have not yet reached puberty. Individuals with this disorder can come from any background; it is a recognized condition globally and occurs across many societies.
These types of disorders are particularly prevalent in Somali regions due to the prolonged hardships experienced over the past 34 years—war, poverty, and widespread psychological stress. Childhood trauma, in particular, increases vulnerability and predisposes individuals to developing personality disorders later in life. These cumulative factors contribute to the troubling behaviors that are now becoming more visible, though many cases remain hidden and unreported.
It is important to question why certain individuals claim to defend an “accused Qur’an teacher” while neglecting to acknowledge the rights and suffering of the young child who is the true victim—a child who also belongs to the Qur’anic tradition.
Quran teachers protesting against the verdicts
The legal system does not distinguish between teacher, president, or ordinary citizen. Its purpose is to protect all members of society, and anyone who commits harm must be held accountable according to the law.
As immoral behaviors have increased in recent times, there has also been a noticeable rise in individuals with mental health conditions—referred to in clinical terms as sexual disorders. These conditions are primarily understood by health professionals and practitioners working in the field of child safeguarding. Among these disorders is pedophilia, affecting many people worldwide. This disorder involves adult men who sexually target young children. It is not influenced by marital status; rather, it is a psychological condition reinforced by distorted impulses. This issue is especially common in settings where teachers are left alone with children without adequate administrative oversight or regular monitoring.
It is essential for society to remain vigilant. Parents must closely monitor the environments in which their children without adequate administrative oversight or regular monitoring.
It is essential for society to remain vigilant. Parents must closely monitor the environments in which their children learn—whether in schools, Qur’anic centers, or other educational settings. Equally important is establishing strong communication between parents and children. Parents should speak with their children daily, foster trust, and ensure that if a child reports something concerning, they are not met with blame or punishment. If a parent responds with anger or blame, the child may refrain from sharing information in the future, which can place them at further risk.
A final note: It is possible that some scholars are correct in suggesting that certain individuals may be attempting to undermine religious institutions by targeting religious figures. Such claims can be examined critically and responsibly. However, it must also be acknowledged that the young victim is himself a child of the Qur’an. Therefore, one should not portray the teacher alone as representing the Qur’anic tradition; the child is equally part of it.
Finally no child should experience violence in any form. No matter who they are or where they are from.
Written by: Abdisalaan Gullied
Public Health Specialist
Master of Public Health Candidate, Uganda
Child Safeguarding Advocate and Humanitarian Activist.
