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Top 12 Longest-Serving Leaders in 2025: A Global Overview
1. Paul Biya – Cameroon (50 Years)
Paul Biya has dominated Cameroon’s political landscape for half a century, maintaining his presidency since 1982. His leadership has been marked by stability for some, while critics point to issues surrounding democracy and political freedoms. Biya’s long tenure makes him the oldest current Head of State in Africa, and his influence extends across various facets of Cameroonian governance and international relations.
2. Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo – Equatorial Guinea (45 Years)
In power since 1979, Obiang’s rule has been one of the longest in the world. His governance has faced significant international scrutiny due to allegations of corruption and authoritarian practices. Despite this, he remains a central figure in Equatorial Guinea’s political scene, steering the country through a blend of resource-driven economic growth and political consolidation.
3. Ali Khamenei – Iran (43 Years)
Serving as Iran’s Supreme Leader since 1989, Ali Khamenei wields significant influence over the country’s policies, military, and religious institutions. His leadership has endured through various regional crises and internal political shifts, solidifying his position as one of the most powerful figures in the Middle East. His ongoing rule reflects a complex balance of religious authority and political power.
4. Denis Sassou Nguesso – Republic of Congo (39 Years)
Time in office doesn’t seem to be deterring Sassou Nguesso, who first became president in 1979 and returned to power in 1997. His steadfast leadership has been crucial in maintaining stability within the nation’s political landscape, despite criticism over democratic processes and governance challenges.
5. Yoweri Museveni – Uganda (39 Years)
Museveni has been Uganda’s key political figure since 1986. His long-standing rule has seen periods of economic progress as well as political tensions. In recent years, Museveni has faced criticism for crackdowns on opposition and media, yet he remains an influential leader in East Africa.
6. Emomali Rahmon – Tajikistan (32 Years)
Since assuming leadership in 1992, Rahmon has steered Tajikistan through post-independence challenges, including civil unrest and economic reform. His rule is noted for maintaining tight control over political dissent and fostering a centralized government structure.
7. Isaias Afwerki – Eritrea (32 Years)
Eritrea’s president since 1993, Afwerki has been a pivotal figure in shaping the nation’s post-independence identity. His administration is often criticized for human rights issues and lack of political freedom, yet he remains unchallenged at the helm of the country.
8. Alexander Lukashenko – Belarus (31 Years)
Lukashenko, often dubbed “Europe’s last dictator,” has maintained power in Belarus since 1994. His tenure has been marred by allegations of election rigging and suppression of opposition voices, yet he persists as a central figure in Eastern Europe’s political landscape.
9. Daniel Ortega – Nicaragua (27 Years)
Returning to power in 2007, Ortega’s leadership has seen a mix of social reforms and increasing authoritarian tendencies. His government has faced protests and international criticism over human rights and democratic practices.
10. Ismail Omar Gelleh – Djibouti (26 Years)
Gelleh has led Djibouti since 1999, overseeing strategic military and economic interests due to the country’s geographic position. His tenure is characterized by diplomatic engagement and efforts to modernize the small nation’s infrastructure.
11. Paul Kagame – Rwanda (25 Years)
Kagame has been Rwanda’s leader since 2000, credited with guiding the country’s recovery from genocide and fostering economic growth. His tenure, however, is not without controversy, especially regarding political freedoms and human rights.
12. Vladimir Putin – Russia (25 Years)
Vladimir Putin’s influence remains deeply rooted in global geopolitics. First taking office in 1999, he has held various political roles including President and Prime Minister, shaping Russia’s policies on the world stage and maintaining a significant grip on domestic affairs.
These figures exemplify a spectrum of leadership styles, from long-standing stability to controversial governance, with many of their countries experiencing significant shifts under their extended rule. As of 2025, their continued influence underscores the complexities of stable leadership amidst diverse socio-political landscapes worldwide.
Source: Statista
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