Gambia National Assembly on 11 December 2006 enacted a bill entitled “The Former Presidents’ Bill” that makes provision for allowances, establishment of an office and other benefits for former heads of state after they have served a period of two terms in office.

According to the provisions of the bill, Gambian former presidents shall be entitled to a monthly allowance of D50,000 and other benefits which shall be paid by the Government of The Gambia with the funds provided for in the annual budget.

The benefits also include a well furnished and equipped office with no more than four staff including a personal assistant and a personal secretary, all to be selected by the former president.

The bill also provides for a lifetime diplomatic passport, and three motor vehicles to be maintained and fuelled together with drivers to be selected by the former presidents.

The provision includes also well furnished accommodation such as residence with telephone and other facilities.

Twenty-four hours security services, four housekeepers, two gardeners and two cooks shall also be provided.

The bill also makes available to former presidents and their wives free medical treatment within and outside the country if necessary on the recommendation of the director of medical services at the Department of State for Health and Social Welfare.

According to the bill, former presidents and their spouses shall also enjoy one month annual vacation within and outside the country at a location to be selected by the ex-presidents with the Gambia government taking the responsibility of providing air tickets and payment of per diem.

Contributing to the enactment of the bill, members of the National Assembly described the bill as timely, saying “it is to ensure peace and stability”.

They commended president Yahya Jammeh for initiating such a bill, which, they said, would ensure peace and tranquility in the country.