Ruto’s plan to import GMO maize put on hold
Ruto’s plan to import GMO (Genetically Modified Maize) maize put on hold after the high court ruling.
The government’s plans to import or distribute genetically modified crops have been temporarily blocked by the High Court.
On November 28, Lady Justice Mugure Thande issued a decision ordering a halt to imports awaiting the outcome of a lawsuit filed by the Kenyan Peasants League.
The High Court also ruled that the government was not permitted to implement the Cabinet dispatch that repealed the GMO ban.
“It is hereby ordered: that the petition and application be served upon all parties by close of business on Monday, November 28, 2022, and that the responses be served by December 13, 2022,” ruled Justice Thande.
The case will be mentioned on December 15, 2022, for directions.
Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria had announced the resumption of GMO after a 10-year suspension.
The decision was made after a Cabinet meeting chaired by President William Ruto in a bid to mitigate the ongoing drought.
According to Trade CS, the move was a progressive step towards increasing food security in the country.
Further, Moses Kuria received immense criticism over his controversial remarks on admitting that GMO crops can lead to death.
We have so many things that can kill us in the country. Being in this country, you are a candidate for death.”
“And because so many things compete for death, there is nothing wrong with adding GMOs to that list. That is why we have deliberately allowed GMO until we are satisfied that we have enough maize, the staple food,” he stated while addressing traders on November 17, 2022.
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