Teixeira clarifies entitlements for Opposition Leader 

Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, has clarified the Opposition Leader’s entitlements concerning security and duty-free concessions. 

In a Facebook video, Teixeira explained that the Opposition Leader has the same entitlements as a government minister. As such, that office holder does not have personal security; rather, there will be security provided at the individual’s home and office. 

Additionally, the Governance Minister said the Opposition Leader gets the same salary, benefits, and allowances as a minister. 

She offered these clarifications on Wednesday, following concerns raised by recently-elected Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed. She opined that Mohamed may have been misinformed about the benefits he is entitled to, confusing those with the entitlements former President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo enjoyed while serving as Opposition Leader. 

“Mr. Azruddin is not a former and is not entitled to the things a former President is entitled to,” she said. 

Mohamed, who leads the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, was elected Opposition Leader last week. In this role, he is also entitled to an office and three staff to aid in the execution of his duties. The rent for the office and the salaries for his staff will be paid for by the Parliament.