By: Aja Dahaba
The Gambia’s National Assembly has passed the Salaries and Pensions (Amendment) Bill, 2025, expanding gratuity and pension entitlements for lawmakers, their next of kin, and successors in cases of death, resignation, or recall.
The bill, sponsored by nominated member Kebba Lang Fofana, cleared its second and third readings on Wednesday amid debate over its provisions and broader implications.
Proponents in the Assembly argued that the amendments address critical gaps in the existing National Assembly Salaries and Pensions Act, ensuring fair treatment for members who leave office prematurely.
Key provisions include: In the event of a member’s death during their five-year term (after completing at least one year), the next-of-kin would receive a gratuity equal to 25% of the total emoluments earned by the deceased during their tenure; Members who resign or are recalled by voters, having served at least one year, would personally receive a 25% gratuity based on their earned emoluments; and Successors completing at least one year of a residual term would also qualify for a 25% gratuity on emoluments received during that period.
The legislation aims to create new beneficiary classes under the Act while maintaining connections to existing pension frameworks.
However, the bill has faced sharp public backlash in recent weeks. Critics have questioned its timing, pointing to economic hardships faced by many Gambians, including rising living costs and stagnant wages in other sectors. Some view the expanded benefits as prioritizing lawmakers’ welfare amid broader fiscal constraints.
The passage follows the bill’s earlier tabling in 2025, with deliberations highlighting tensions between legislative perks and public expectations.
The amended law now awaits presidential assent to take effect.
