The National Assembly on Wednesday deferred consideration of the Former Presidents Benefits and Other Facilities Bill 2026 to its next regular sitting at the Government’s request.

 

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, requested the postponement. No reason was given during the sitting, and the proposed changes to former presidents’ benefits were not discussed. The bill was tabled on June 5.

 

Meanwhile, the National Assembly proceeded with other legislative business, including the introduction of new bills.

The National Heritage Preservation Bill 2026 was presented to provide for the establishment of a National Heritage Preservation Council and a framework for identifying, conserving and protecting sites, objects and other items of national heritage.

The Criminal Justice Alternative Sentencing Bill 2026 was also introduced. It seeks to provide non-custodial sentencing options, including curfew and community service orders, for individuals convicted of minor offences.

Bill on former presidents’ benefits deferred to next parliamentary sitting
Bill on former presidents’ benefits deferred to next parliamentary sitting