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Longest Serving Leaders Around the World in 2025

1. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei Keeps His Reign Extending

For over four decades, Ali Khamenei has been the dominant figure in Iran’s political landscape. Ascending to the position of Supreme Leader in 1989, Khamenei has maintained his grip on power through a combination of political influence, religious authority, and tactical maneuvering. Despite various internal and external pressures, he continues to shape Iran’s policies domestically and abroad. His leadership exemplifies stability in a country often characterized by upheaval, with the government adjusting to shifting geopolitical dynamics under his watch.

2. Denis Sassou Nguesso’s Long-Term Grip on Congo

Since returning to power in 1997, Denis Sassou Nguesso has become a mainstay in Congolese politics. Leading the Republic of the Congo for a total of nearly 40 years—first from 1979 to 1992, then again from 1997—Nguesso’s leadership is marked by efforts to stabilize the nation amid economic challenges and regional conflicts. His influence in the central African nation has persisted through constitutional changes and electoral processes, maintaining his status as a key political figure well into 2025.

3. Yoweri Museveni: Africa’s Veteran Leader in Uganda

Yoweri Museveni’s influence in Uganda stretches back over four decades. Since taking power in 1986, he has overseen an era of relative stability, economic growth, and political consolidation. While his tenure has not been without criticism surrounding democratic processes, Museveni’s leadership remains resilient. As of 2025, he continues to shape Uganda’s policy landscape, balancing traditional authority with the demands of modern governance.

4. Emomali Rahmon: Tajikistan’s Resilient President

Tajikistan’s Emomali Rahmon has been at the helm since 1992, steering his country through post-Soviet transitions and regional challenges. His leadership, lasting over three decades, is characterized by authoritarian governance and efforts to suppress dissent. Despite concerns about human rights and political freedoms, Rahmon’s influence remains firm, allowing him to extend his rule well into 2025.

5. Isaias Afwerki: Eritrea’s Unwavering Leader

Since Eritrea gained independence in 1993, Isaias Afwerki has maintained power as the country’s only president. His leadership spans over 32 years, marked by national resilience amidst ongoing conflicts with Ethiopia and internal political retrenchment. Afwerki’s continued rule reflects a concentrated grip on power, with the government controlling most aspects of Eritrean society.

6. Alexander Lukashenko: Belarus’s Lasting Autocrat

Often dubbed “Europe’s last dictator,” Alexander Lukashenko has been the central figure in Belarus since 1994. His leadership, now over 31 years old, is characterized by a combination of electoral legitimacy and suppression of opposition. As of 2025, Lukashenko’s control remains dominant, navigating geopolitical tensions with Russia and the West while maintaining his authority internally.

7. Daniel Ortega’s Return and Continued Presidency in Nicaragua

Daniel Ortega, once a revolutionary leader, returned to power in 2007 and has since extended his rule to nearly 27 years. His presidency, marked by controversial reforms and crackdowns on dissent, illustrates a pattern of consolidating authority amid political unrest. Despite international criticism, Ortega’s grip on Nicaragua persists in 2025.

8. Ismail Omar Guelleh’s Continued Influence in Djibouti

Working as Djibouti’s President since 1999, Ismail Omar Guelleh has held onto power for over 26 years. His leadership has been crucial in strategically positioning Djibouti as a key logistics hub for global markets. While facing regional and domestic challenges, Guelleh’s staying power reflects his ability to navigate complex geopolitical waters.

9. Paul Kagame’s Steady Leadership in Rwanda

Rwandan President Paul Kagame has been in charge for 25 years, beginning his presidency in 2000. His leadership is lauded for economic progress and political stability, though it has faced criticism regarding human rights and democratic practices. Despite these concerns, Kagame remains a strong figure shaping Rwanda’s future well into 2025.

10. Vladimir Putin’s Ongoing Reign in Russia

Vladimir Putin has been a central figure in Russia for over 25 years, with his leadership spanning multiple terms since 1999. His strategic approach to governance, national security, and international relations has kept him at the forefront of global politics. Continuing to adapt to new challenges, Putin’s influence is firmly entrenched as of 2025.

[Image: Leaders Around the World in 2025]

Note: Data reflects the leadership status as of 2025, based on latest available information.

Sources: Statista, Twitter
Published in 2025, highlighting the unique longevity of these influential leaders around the globe.