Why Raila Supported GMOs as Prime Minister But Now Opposes Them

The ODM leader, Raila Odinga, now argues that his support for the introduction of genetically modified foods into the nation more than ten years ago was based on incomplete knowledge at the time.
More than 10 years later, as scientific scrutiny has increased, new material has surfaced, most of it adverse to GMOs, leading Raila’s change of heart.

According to a statement by Dennis Onyango, Raila’s spokesperson, “Mr. Odinga’s stance on GMOs has evolved over the last decade as science has,”

The former prime minister denied allegations that his change in position on GMOs was a ploy.

The willingness to learn, unlearn, and relearn, according to Raila, is what the twenty-first century is all about.

In light of this, the statement continues, “Mr. Odinga’s present attitude on GMOs is not an example of double speak, but rather a result of desire to learn, unlearn, and relearn, the essence of literacy in the 21st century.

In the same remark, Raila said he would be happy to back the government’s efforts if it could persuade the general public that GMO crops are safe.

The statement continues, “Mr. Odinga will stand ready to embrace that fresh information.”

In late October, Raila restated his objection to the government’s plan to plant genetically modified crops across the country. The administration reportedly took this action to address problems caused by the drought.

According to Raila, the reintroduction of GMOs is a harsh defense that violates Kenyans’ rights and jeopardizes national interests at the expense of foreign economic interests.

He promised to go on the offensive against GMOs in the courtroom and on farms all throughout the nation.

He also questioned the legality of GMos in Kenya, particularly in light of the fact that they are still prohibited in nations with sophisticated science like France, Germany, Austria, Greece, Hungary, and the Netherlands.

“Numerous nations with developed scientific infrastructure, including France, Germany, Austria, Greece, Hungary, the Netherlands, Latvia, Lithuania, and Luxembourg, have outlawed them. Malte, Slovenia, Italy, Croatia, Denmark, Poland, Bulgaria, and Poland. Kenya: Why?” Raila tacked on.