A contentious debate over parliamentary compensation has resurfaced in Suriname, revealing that members of De Nationale Assemblee (DNA) receive nearly SRD 95,000 (approximately $2,800) monthly after deductions, alongside extensive additional benefits. The disclosure comes as legislator Poetini Atompai of the National Progressive Party (NPS) announces plans to submit a formal proposal revisiting these remuneration packages.
Official documentation confirms that assembly members earn a gross monthly income of SRD 132,139, with net compensation of SRD 94,876.96 after deductions for income tax, pension contributions, and social security. The figures emerge amid growing scrutiny of parliamentary benefits during the country’s challenging economic climate.
Atompai, who had criticized the compensation structure prior to elections, maintains his position that governing officials and parliamentarians should not retain elevated incomes while citizens face financial hardships. “What we stated before elections, we must continue to assert afterward,” Atompai told Starnieuws, emphasizing that “when times are difficult, the government, assembly, and population should feel this collectively.”
Beyond base compensation, assembly members receive comprehensive secondary benefits including complete medical coverage for themselves and families, free dental and optical care, international medical treatment when necessary, transportation allowances, VIP airport facilities, and diplomatic passports. Fraction leaders Rabin Parmessar (NDP) and Asis Gajadien (VHP) receive additional 30% representation allowances, while regular members receive 20%.
The current financial arrangements for the National Assembly, government, and judiciary were previously approved by the former parliament with 28 votes in favor and 12 against. The NDP faction had opposed the measures, warning they would generate public discontent regarding compensation levels. Despite earlier indications that these provisions would be reversed, no corrective action has been implemented to date.