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Meet the World’s Longest-Serving Political Leaders in 2025
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Staying in power for decades is a rare feat in modern politics. Some world leaders have maintained their grip on power for over 30 years, shaping nations and influencing regional geopolitics. Here’s a comprehensive look at the longest-serving political leaders in 2025, their journeys, and the impact they’ve made.
1. Paul Biya — Cameroon (41 Years in Power)
Since 1982, Paul Biya has been the president of Cameroon. His leadership is marked by stability in a country often marred by conflicts and political unrest. Despite criticisms about authoritarian tendencies, Biya’s rule has seen some economic growth, but allegations of corruption and suppression of opposition continue to tarnish his legacy.
2. Ali Khamenei — Iran (36 Years as Supreme Leader)
Since 1989, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has held the position of Supreme Leader, the highest authority in Iran. His influence extends over all branches of government, military, and media. Khamenei navigates through complex regional and international politics, maintaining the Islamic Republic’s core principles while adapting to shifting geopolitical landscapes.
3. Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo — Equatorial Guinea (44 Years)
Ruling since 1979, Teodoro Obiang is Africa’s longest-serving president. His tenure has seen significant economic growth thanks to oil resources, but his administration has also faced accusations of corruption and human rights abuses. Despite that, Obiang controls the political landscape, ensuring his continued rule.
4. Paul Kagame — Rwanda (20 Years and Counting)
While slightly under the 25-year mark, Kagame’s influence is undeniable. Rising to power in 2000, Kagame has led Rwanda through post-genocide reconstruction, economic development, and regional diplomacy. His leadership has been praised for stability and growth, but critics accuse him of suppressing dissent.
5. Alexander Lukashenko — Belarus (30 Years)
Known as “Europe’s last dictator,” Lukashenko has maintained power since 1994. His leadership is characterized by consolidating control over the media, judiciary, and electoral processes. Recent elections and protests reflect growing opposition, but Lukashenko remains a pivotal figure in Belarusian politics.
6. Omar al-Bashir — Sudan (30 Years Until 2019)
Though he was deposed in 2019, Omar al-Bashir’s decades-long rule significantly impacted Sudan’s history. His time in power was marred by conflicts, internal strife, and efforts to maintain control amid widespread protests. His ousting marked a new chapter for Sudan.
7. Xi Jinping — China (10 Years and Counting)
Having consolidated power since taking office in 2013, Xi Jinping has become arguably the most influential Chinese leader since Mao Zedong. His tenure features extensive economic reforms, military modernization, and the push for global influence. In 2023, Xi secured a third term, cementing his leadership for the foreseeable future.
8. Vladimir Putin — Russia (Over 24 Years in Total)
Serving as either president or prime minister since 1999, Vladimir Putin’s influence has reshaped Russia’s political and economic landscape. His strategic use of nationalistic rhetoric, control over media, and foreign policy maneuvers position him as a pivotal figure in international politics.
Final Thoughts
The landscape of global politics continues to evolve, but these leaders exemplify remarkable longevity that impacts entire regions and beyond. Their policies, leadership styles, and governance models serve as addresses of both stability and controversy in 2025. Their ability to maintain power for over three decades underscores the complexities of leadership in a rapidly changing world.
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