By Adama Maksuba
Gambian citizens rallied on Monday, July 8, against the proposed judicial officers’ remuneration and pension bill, calling for urgent action from the authorities.
A large gathering, including many youths, assembled on the outskirts of Banjul to voice their opposition to the bill. They argue that the proposed legislation, intended to enhance judicial officers’ salaries, allowances, and pension entitlements, unfairly prioritizes the interests of a select group at the expense of the wider population.
Lamin Manneh, a senior executive representing concerned citizens, underscored the significance of their demands during a session in the parliament chambers. They insisted on the withdrawal of a bill that appeared to benefit members of parliament while disregarding the welfare of other civil servants and the public. They also called for retracting the Judicial Officers Bill 2024, which inequitably distributed national resources and overlooked the broader population’s needs, a clear violation of social justice.
They also advocated for just compensation for all public servants, ensuring that salaries and benefits align with the country’s economic reality and not create significant disparities. They urge the government to prioritize allocating national resources to critical sectors such as education, healthcare, security, infrastructure, and agriculture to improve the living standards of all Gambians, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to the welfare of the population.
