For decades, political scholars and observers have raised concerns about a persistent trend in African governance: the dominance of so-called “strongman” leadership.
This phenomenon describes a political culture where authority is centralized in the hands of a single ruler—often at the expense of democratic institutions and checks on power.
Across the continent, several leaders have exemplified this model by undermining opposition voices and bending constitutional rules to prolong their hold on power, sometimes for generations.
Among the most cited cases are Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe, who ruled for nearly four decades, and Mobutu Sese Seko of the former Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo), whose reign extended for 32 years.
Although both men are no longer in power, their legacy persists. Today, numerous other African presidents continue in similar fashion, clinging to power for decades and reinforcing a cycle of authoritarian resilience in democratic disguise.
Teodoro Obiang of Equatorial Guinea
Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo has held power since 1979, making him Africa’s longest-serving head of state with a tenure spanning 46 years. He came to power through a military coup that ousted his uncle, and later transitioned into civilian leadership under a new constitution, officially becoming President in 1982. Today, his son, Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue, serves as the country’s Vice President, further entrenching the family’s grip on power.
Paul Biya of Cameroon
Paul Biya, Cameroon’s second president, has been in power since 1982, making him the continent’s second-longest-serving leader. Now 92 years old, he also holds the distinction of being Africa’s oldest sitting president. Over the decades, Biya secured re-election in 1997, 2004, 2011, and 2018. A key turning point came in April 2008, when a constitutional amendment abolished presidential term limits—paving the way for him to seek re-election indefinitely.
Dennis Sassou of Congo-Brazzaville
At 82, Denis Sassou Nguesso has led the Republic of the Congo for a total of 41 years. He first assumed the presidency in March 1979, holding office until August 1992. After a brief hiatus, he returned to power in 1997 following a civil war and has remained at the helm ever since.
Isaias Afwerki of Eritrea
At 79, Isaias Afwerki has been in power for 32 years. He was appointed president by the National Assembly following Eritrea’s independence in 1993. Since then, the country has seen no presidential elections, no functioning constitution or national legislature, and no limits on presidential terms.
Ismail Omar Guelleh of Djibouti
Ismaïl Omar Guelleh became Djibouti’s second president in May 1999, succeeding his uncle, Hassan Gouled Aptidon. Now 78 years old, Guelleh has been in power for 26 years, making him the longest-serving president in the country’s history.
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