Wolesi Jirga OKs presidential privileges

KABUL): The lower house on Saturday approved with some amendments two drafts laws regarding salaries, expenses and privileges of the president and other senior government figures.

Wolesi Jirga Financial and Budget Commission chief, Amir Khan Yar, who put the bills before lawmakers for debate, said the government had sought 3.5 million afghanis for the president in the name of privileges.

However, the house decided to reduce the amount to 487,500afs for the president in monthly salary and other expenses. It also approved free medical treatment for the president and his family members.

The president and his family members should be sent abroad if their treatment was not possible at home, the legislators agreed.

The assembly also voted for the head of state continuing to receive 487,500 afghanis in monthly salary after the end of his office term, amid opposition from some MPs who called the decision a violation of Article 70 of the Constitution.

Approved by the MPs, the measure fixed at 276,000 salaries of each vice president, 227,000 each for the chief justice and speakers of both houses.

Each of ministers, parliament members, attorney-general and Supreme Court judges will receive 195,000 in monthly pay.

ma/mud

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