Popular businessman, Edrissa Mass Jobe has presented his candidacy for the position of President at the Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI).

Mr Jobe, who has interests in many areas including oil and gas, joined the race last week.  His supporters have started trumping up support for his campaign.

One of them told What’s On-Gambia: “If he is elected, it will be a boom for Gambian business as I'm sure he will overhaul the organisation to benefit especially the SME's (mostly female owned) who have been paying dues for years but have not benefitted much in return.”

He continued: “Other than the Trade Fair - where everyone complains they make hardly any sales over the 3 weeks - the GCCI is not really active. Edi is a proven businessman and has a firm understanding of what is needed to kick-start the private sector.”

Ali Hydara, CEO of Hydara Karara Trading and a member of the GCCI, said: “Edi is the man we need right now as our president. I am optimistic that my colleagues would fully back him in his bid to replace outgoing president Muhammed Jagana.”

Others who have expressed interest in the top seat include the Managing Director of Reliance Financial Services Company Limited, Baboucarr Khan.