In the realm of politics, longevity in power is a rare feat. Yet, a select few presidents have managed to hold onto the reins of their countries for decades. With President Vladimir Putin of Russia’s recent re-election, he’s set to join this exclusive club of the world’s longest-serving presidents.
On March 17, 2024, Putin of Russia was re-elected for another six-year term, making him one of the world’s longest-serving leaders. By the end of his new term, Putin will have ruled Russia for three decades, joining the league of political leaders with extended tenures.
In this article, we take a closer look at the 10 longest-serving presidents in the world, examining their impact and the longevity of their rule.
Paul Biya
At 91, Paul Biya of Cameroon is not just the world’s oldest elected leader but also its second-longest-serving president. His 41-year rule has been marked by a firm control over the nation.
Emomali Rahmon
Since 1994, Emomali Rahmon has been at Tajikistan’s helm. His tenure began in the wake of the Soviet Union’s collapse, and he has remained the nation’s guiding force ever since.
Teodoro Obiang Nguema
Equatorial Guinea’s Teodoro Obiang Nguema has been in power since August 3, 1979. His presidency, lasting over four decades, has seen the country dubbed the “North Korea of Africa” due to his tight grip on power.
Isaias Afwerki
Eritrea has known only one president since its independence in 1993: Isaias Afwerki. His leadership has spanned three decades, shaping the country’s post-independence era.
Yoweri Museveni
Yoweri Museveni has led Uganda for 37 years, having ascended to power in 1986. Despite controversies, he secured a sixth term in the 2021 elections, cementing his place among Africa’s longest-serving leaders.
Ismail Omar Guelleh
Ismail Omar Guelleh has been Djibouti’s president since 1999. Succeeding his uncle, he has maintained his position through four election victories, becoming a fixture in the nation’s politics.
Vladimir Putin
Vladimir Putin’s recent re-election ensures his place among the longest-serving presidents. Having led Russia since 1999, his tenure will extend to three decades by the end of his new term.
Alexander Lukashenko
Alexander Lukashenko’s 29-year presidency makes him Europe’s longest-serving leader. Since 1994, he has held Belarus’s top office, earning him the nickname “Europe’s last dictator.”
Denis Sassou Nguesso
With a cumulative 39 years in power, Denis Sassou Nguesso of the Republic of Congo has seen his country through significant changes. His leadership spans from 1979 to 1992 and from 1997 to the present.
Paul Kagame
Paul Kagame has been Rwanda’s president since 2000. His leadership, beginning after the 1994 genocide, has been pivotal in the country’s recovery and development.
The endurance of these longest-serving presidents is a testament to their political acumen and the varying degrees of support or control they wield in their countries. Their legacies, whether marked by stability or controversy, have undoubtedly shaped the course of their nations’ histories.