GTBank Kenya Moves to Challenge CAK Decision, Seeks to Overturn Ksh 33 Million Penalty in ASL Credit Row

Guaranty Trust Bank (Kenya) Limited has moved to challenge a decision by the Competition Authority of Kenya (CAK) following a dispute involving ASL Limited over the management of credit facilities.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the bank confirmed it had received the Authority’s ruling dated January 29, 2026, which arose from a complaint lodged by ASL Limited concerning how the lender handled its loan arrangements.

However, GTBank Kenya has formally appealed the decision to the Competition Tribunal, effectively escalating the matter to the next legal stage. With the case now before the Tribunal, the bank said it would limit public commentary, citing the sub judice nature of the proceedings.

“The Bank’s conduct throughout its banking relationship with ASL Limited was, at all times, consistent with its contractual obligations and in compliance with applicable banking laws and regulations,” the lender said.

GTBank Kenya further indicated that its decision to appeal stems from its belief that the Authority’s findings were not supported by the facts and evidence presented during investigations. The appellate process, it added, will offer an opportunity for a fuller and more balanced review of the matter.

The dispute touches on the sensitive intersection of competition oversight and banking relationships — an area that has increasingly drawn regulatory scrutiny as businesses challenge lender conduct under competition law frameworks.

While the details of CAK’s ruling were not disclosed, the bank emphasized its commitment to fair customer treatment and regulatory compliance. It also underscored that, as a licensed financial institution regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya, it continues to uphold high standards of governance and constructive engagement with regulators.

The case now awaits determination by the Competition Tribunal, whose decision could clarify the boundaries between commercial banking discretion and competition oversight in Kenya’s financial sector.

Until then, GTBank Kenya says it will refrain from further public statements as it pursues the appeal.

Read Also: GTBank Launches Fingerprint Recognition on its Upgraded Mobile App