By Makutu Manneh
The National Assembly’s Whole House Committee on Thursday, December 11th, 2025, adopted the National Assembly Salaries and Pension (Amendment) Bill, 2025, advancing a controversial measure that would expand retirement and gratuity benefits for lawmakers and their families. The committee approved the bill without making any changes.
The legislation will now proceed to the Assembly Business Committee, which is responsible for scheduling its third reading.
During the session, Deputy Speaker Seedy Njie reminded both the standing committee and the Office of the Clerk to adhere to Standing Order 73(5), which requires that the amended version of any bill be printed and circulated to lawmakers ahead of further debate. He noted, however, that no amendments had been introduced.
The bill has drawn public criticism in recent weeks, with opponents questioning the timing of a proposal that increases benefits for legislators as many Gambians struggle with rising living costs.
If enacted, the measure would expand pension and gratuity entitlements for members of the National Assembly, as well as for their spouses and designated successors in cases of death, resignation, or recall.
The Assembly adjourned its sitting to Monday, Dec. 15, at 10 a.m.