By Omar Bah
The Gambia Bar Association (BAR) has released a statement regarding the contentious Judicial Remuneration Bill, acknowledging the public’s concerns and urging them to remain calm and carefully consider its provisions. The bill has sparked widespread public concern, with many believing that the country cannot afford to pay judicial officials excessively.
In response to these concerns, the BAR emphasized that the proposed bill seeks to implement Section 142 (1) of the 1997 Constitution of the Republic of The Gambia, which outlines the remuneration entitlements of judges and other judicial officers. Contrary to some public perceptions, the BAR clarified that the bill does not aim to increase the salaries of judicial officers but rather to establish a structured legal framework governing their compensation and benefits.
Furthermore, the BAR highlighted that the bill includes provisions for the Judicial Service Commission to review the adequacy of payments made to judicial officers during public service pay reviews and submit reports to the President for approval. The BAR firmly believes that enacting this bill will enhance the overall efficiency of the judicial system, maintain the integrity of judicial officers, and attract experienced legal practitioners to the Judiciary, ultimately contributing to the fair administration of justice.
The BAR stressed the importance of promoting and safeguarding the independence of the Judiciary for the maintenance of the rule of law and the delivery of justice. They expressed their unwavering commitment to this cause and their belief that enacting the bill would reinforce the independence of the Judiciary and help attract and retain top legal talents, thus positively impacting the administration of justice.
The statement, dated July 4th, 2024, was signed by the President of the Gambia Bar Association, Neneh MC Cham.
