GMO Controversy: Raila’s Viral Video Sparks Uproar
On Sunday, May 7, a video of Azimo Leader discussing the effects of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) went viral.
On Friday, May 5, the video was captured during Raila’s visit to Shakahola in Kilifi County.
Moments after being denied entry to Shakahola Forest, where nearly 100 people perished at the hands of cult leader Paul Mackenzie, Raila revealed that the government had smuggled in GMOs.
“Our country is in a very sad state because the government has implemented a program to import GMOs.
The former prime minister made unsubstantiated claims that the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) causes men to develop female organs and women to develop male reproductive organs.
Raila urged the government to implement the same restrictions on the distribution of GMO maize as the United States.
“In the United States, there is a law that requires you to label any GMO product and separate it from organically produced foods,” Raila advised the government.
In response to the video, Kenyans dismissed Raila for making scientifically unsupported claims.
“Raila Odinga should avoid deceiving the public for political gain,” tweeted one Twitter user.
Another social media user echoed his sentiments, stating, “It seems politicians will do anything to get Kenyans back on the streets for demonstrations.”
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President William Ruto had previously dismissed claims that GMOs could cause a biological alteration in humans.
“Some leaders have been spreading a variety of falsehoods, including that men will develop breasts and women will develop beards if they consume GMOs.
On January 4, 2023, the President asked Kenyans, “Have you seen me grow breasts, yet I have consumed GMO foods?”
Refuting the opposition’s claims, he stated that they were opposed to his efforts to make the country food secure.
On October 4, 2022, the cabinet lifted a 2012 ban on the importation of genetically modified organisms.
The High Court suspended the importation of GMO maize on November 28, 2022. In response to a case filed by the Kenyan Peasants League challenging the cabinet’s resolution.
In October 2022, a study conducted by the American company Alliance Science. Ranked Raila Odinga and Roots Part George Wajackoyah as the most influential individuals in Africa spreading misinformation about GMOs.
“Notable offenders included opposition leader Raila, who made numerous false statements about the negative health effects of GMOs, and George Wajackoyah, who claimed that GMOs would cause men and women to develop deformities,” the report stated.
GMO Controversy: Raila’s Viral Video Sparks Uproar
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