Retired Gambian FIFA referee Bakary Papa Gassama has thrown his support behind Team Restore Confidence presidential aspirant Sadibou Kamaso, while calling for greater investment and protection for young Gambian footballers.

Speaking during Kamaso’s manifesto launch, the African refereeing icon stressed that football has grown into a major business and urged stakeholders to take the development of the sport more seriously.

“Football is a big business now. We need to be serious and support the young ones,” Gassama said.

The former FIFA referee, who officiated at three FIFA World Cups, used Gambian international Yankuba Minteh as an example of the economic potential football can generate for the country.

“Do you know how many Gambian civil servants Yankuba Minteh could pay with just one month of his salary? A lot of them,” he stated.

“And we have many Yankuba Mintehs in The Gambia who are trying to make a name for themselves. Let’s help them.”

Gassama further explained that his endorsement of Sadibou Kamaso is based on the aspirant’s commitment to transparency, accountability and the overall growth of Gambian football.

“The reason why I am supporting Mr. Sadibou Kamaso is because he stands firm on enhancing institutional accountability, establishing zero tolerance for financial mismanagement, and elevating the global standing of Gambian football,” he added.

Bakary Papa Gassama is widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest referees, having officiated at multiple CAF tournaments and three FIFA World Cups during his illustrious career.

By Ebrima KB Sonko