KABUL - The lower house on Monday approved with slight amendments a draft law regarding the salaries, expenses and privileges of the president.

On May 29, Minister of Justice Habibullah Ghalib submitted the draft law for Wolesi Jirga’s debate and approval. Parts of the proposed law were adopted on June 1.

The government had previously sought 3.5 million Afghanis in the name of privileges for the president, but the house cut the amount to 487,500afs 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.

Wolesi Jirga Finance and Budget Commission chief, Amir Khan Yar, on Monday put the remaining portions of the draft before MPs for debate and approval.

Yar informed legislators the presidential pay and privileges could be revised in line with the country’s economic situation and with the approval of the Cabinet.

But the house panel decided the presidential salary and perks would be changed in light of the civil services law, Yar said, suggesting such privileges should be fixed by the Cabinet Secretariat.

Of the 124 members present, 115 endorsed the commission’s view. First Deputy Speaker Mirwais Yasini put the draft law, having four chapters and 19 articles, to vote.

A majority of members voted in favor of the legislative measure, which will be referred to the Meshrano Jirga for passage before being sent to the president for signing. (Pajhwok)