Five days after the launch of the new currency, it is yet to be circulated.
Several managers of several commercial banks told Hot News that the Central Bank has not released the new currency to them.
“I went to withdraw at least shs 600,000 from my Branch on Koinange streeton Tuesday. The manager told me he has not received the new currency. I was given the old notes,” said a City resident who requested anonymity.
Another bank manager still on Koinange Street told Hot News tha t he is also yet to receive the new currency from Central Bank.
“With the cases that have been filed in court – we may not see the new currency in circulation. People are excited about the new currency and most people who come to make large withdrawals are asking for it. But I haven’t received it yet,” said the manager.
Several shopkeepers and Matatu operators have also said they haven’t seen the new currency.
The two cases challenging the new-generation currency have been referred to Chief Justice David Maraga.
Maraga will form a three-judge bench to hear them.
Justice Weldon Korir certified as urgent the cases by activist Okiya Omtatah and ex Kamukunji MP Simon Mbugua.
He said the e cases raise substantive questions of law and should be heard by three judges.
Omtatah has accused the Central Bank of Kenya and its head Patrick Njoroge of contravening the law by using a portrait of Kenya’s first President Jomo Kenyatta on the notes.