Africa is a continent that has seen the reign of many long-serving Heads of State who have clung to power for extended periods, showing no intention of stepping down anytime soon. This prolonged practice of staying in authority for decades, sometimes spanning 20, 30, or even 40 years, has raised concerns.
Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia holds the record, having ruled for an impressive 44 years before his overthrow in 1974. Moamer Kadhafi, the Libyan strongman, maintained his grip for nearly 42 years, meeting his end in 2011 during the armed conflict triggered by protests against his rule.
Omar Bongo Ondimba of Gabon led for 41 years until his passing in June 2009. Angolan leader Jose Eduardo dos Santos, who was not democratically elected, relinquished power after 38 years in September 2017 and passed away in July 2022.
Omar al-Bashir held Sudan under his command for 30 years until his military ousting in 2019. Chad’s Idriss Deby Itno ruled for 30 years until his death in April 2021, succeeded by his son, General Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno.
In terms of specific leaders:
1. **Paul Biya** – Born on February 13, 1933, Paul Biya has held the presidency in Cameroon since November 6, 1982. At 90 years old, he is one of Africa’s oldest presidents, being both the continent’s second-longest-serving president and the world’s longest-serving non-royal leader.
2. **Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo** – President of Equatorial Guinea since 1979, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo is the longest-serving African president. Although known for early brutal dictatorial behavior, he is now 81 years old and holds the record for the longest-serving President of any country.
3. **Denis Sassou Nguesso** – Leading the Republic of the Congo for 36 years, Denis Sassou Nguesso is among Africa’s longest-serving presidents. First coming into power in 1979, he has been re-elected three times and is currently 79 years old.
4. **Yoweri Museveni** – Yoweri Museveni has presided over Uganda for 34 years, initially assuming power in 1986. He has been re-elected three times and, at 78 years old, ranks as Africa’s third oldest head of state.
5. **Isaias Afwerki** – Isaias Afwerki has governed Eritrea for 27 years since taking power in 1991 after leading the nation’s independence from Ethiopia. He has been re-elected twice and is currently 77 years old.
