Honourable Dawda A. Jallow, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice
By Ramatoulie Jawo
Honourable Dawda A. Jallow, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, reintroduced the Judicial Officers’ Remuneration and Other Entitlements Bill 2024 to The Gambia’s National Assembly on Monday.
The bill aims to address the disparity in remuneration between The Gambia and comparable jurisdictions, ensuring fair compensation for judicial officers.
Initially brought before parliament on September 4, 2023, by Minister Jallow, the bill sparked extensive discussions among the assembly members. Despite this, it was ultimately dismissed on September 12, 2023.
The revised bill also addresses the current issue of insufficient judicial salaries in The Gambia, which has been a deterrent for seasoned attorneys considering positions on the bench.
The bill’s provisions aim to attract qualified candidates with the requisite experience and skills for judicial roles, thus enhancing the delivery of justice and upholding the rule of law.
The proposed measures include addressing the occupational hazards and challenges judges face, advocating for fair pay, and establishing comprehensive pension plans.
Moreover, the bill proposes improved pension benefits and introduces survivor benefits for the families of judges, acknowledging the personal sacrifices and dangers inherent in judicial roles. These changes are intended to maintain the judiciary’s integrity, autonomy, and effectiveness within The Gambia.
The bill is slated for its second reading on July 15, 2024.