Gail Teixeira, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, has addressed concerns regarding the entitlements of the newly-elected Opposition Leader, Azruddin Mohamed, following questions about his security arrangements and benefits.
In a Facebook video posted on Wednesday, Teixeira explained that the Opposition Leader is entitled to the same benefits as a government minister. She clarified that the office holder does not receive personal security but will have security provided at their home and office.
Teixeira also confirmed that the Opposition Leader receives a salary, benefits, and allowances comparable to those of a minister. Her remarks were a response to concerns raised by Mohamed, who assumed the position of Opposition Leader last week as the head of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party.
The Minister pointed out that there may have been a misunderstanding regarding the entitlements associated with the role. “Mr. Azruddin is not a former [President] and is not entitled to the things a former President is entitled to,” she noted, referencing the privileges enjoyed by former President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo while he was in the same role.
As part of his responsibilities, Mohamed is entitled to an office and three staff members to assist with his duties, with the rent for the office and salaries for his staff covered by Parliament. Teixeira’s clarifications aim to ensure transparency regarding the benefits associated with the Opposition Leader’s position.
