Brian Kasajja, a Ugandan citizen, has taken legal action by petitioning the High Court in Mukono to declare all Uganda Shilling notes and coins currently in circulation as void.
In his petition submitted to the Civil Division of the High Court, Kasajja argues that the ongoing circulation of currency notes bearing the signature of Deputy Governor of the Bank of Uganda, Dr. Michael Atingi-Ego, is unlawful, irrational, and legally invalid. He contends that these notes lack legal tender status due to the unauthorized electronic signature.
Furthermore, Kasajja challenges the validity of currency notes bearing the electronic signature of the late Governor Prof. Dr. Emmanuel Mutebile, asserting that upon the death of the signatory, his electronic signature becomes invalid under the Electronic Signatures Act of 2011.
Highlighting the urgency of the matter, Kasajja points out discrepancies in the signing authority, emphasizing that the Deputy Governor lacks statutory authority to sign in place of a deceased Governor. Despite the vacancy left by Mutebile’s passing, Kasajja argues that the Deputy Governor’s actions in fulfilling the Governor’s responsibilities are illegal.
In support of his petition, Kasajja underscores the constitutional and economic implications of the continued circulation of invalid currency, affecting all citizens who transact in Ugandan Shillings. He stresses that the matter is of high constitutional importance and public concern, warranting immediate legal intervention.
Kasajja seeks a mandamus order from the Court directing the Central Bank to recall all currency signed by Atingi-Ego and Mutebile within 15 days, citing their impaired legal status and potential impact on the monetary economy.
The Bank of Uganda, the sole respondent in the case, is yet to respond to the petition as legal proceedings unfold.
