In few African nations, a small group of leaders have held onto power for over 38 years, leaving an impact on their countries political, social, and economic trajectories. While some defend their continued leadership as a source of stability and progress, critics argue that their extended rule has often come at the cost of democracy, accountability, and human rights. Here is a closer look at these presidents, their ideologies, governance styles, development records, and the lasting implications of their time in office.
1.Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo,Equatorial Guinea, Years in Power: Since 1979 (45+ years) Governance: Absolute presidential system with no meaningful opposition; power heavily centralized. Development: Equatorial Guinea is oil-rich, yet most citizens allegedly live in poverty due to corruption and elite capture,Development: His long rule is often cited as a textbook example of kleptocracy .
2.Paul Biya – Cameroon
Paul Biya – Cameroon,Years in Power: Since 1982 42+ years, Ideology: Centralized conservatism with democratic appearance,Governance: Multiparty democracy in name only; real power remains tightly controlled by the presidency,Development: Cameroon has seen economic fluctuations; conflict in Anglophone regions has damaged unity and development.
3.Denis Sassou Nguesso – Republic of the Congo,Years in Power: 1979–1992, returned in 1997 (Total 38+ years) Ideology: Initially Marxist-Leninist; now autocratic with some democratic trappings
Governance: Dominant-party system; has removed term limits to extend his stay in power,Development: Despite oil revenues, Congo allegedly suffers from high poverty and limited infrastructure according to the report from the local residence.Public Perception: Seen as corrupt and unaccountable; elections often lack credibility
The prolonged rule of Africa’s longest serving presidents have challenges to democracy, accountability, and development. While some may argue for experience and continuity, the long term effects often include repression, institutional decay, and lost opportunities for progress.
4.Yoweri Museveni Uganda, In Power Since: January 29, 1986, Governance: Initially came to power through a guerrilla war; later amended the constitution to remove term and age limit,Development: Periods of economic growth; however, concerns include suppression of political opposition and human rights abuses.
Public Perception: Criticized for democratic backsliding, suppression of opposition, and human rights concerns implications: His prolonged rule has led to concerns about democratic erosion and political repression in Uganda.
5.Isaias Afwerki – Eritrea, In Power Since: May 24, 1993, Governance: Single-party system; no scheduled election,Development: One of the world’s most repressive regimes; characterized by mandatory military conscription, strict media control, and severely restricted civil liberties
Implications: Represents a model of totalitarianism; his rule has led to significant human rights abuses and has hindered development in Eritrea
6.Mswati III – Eswatini, In Power Since: April 25, 1986
Governance: Absolute monarchy; the king holds veto power over all branches of government and is constitutionally immune from prosecution.
Development: Economic challenges persist, with high levels of poverty and unemployment; political dissent is harshly punished
Public Perception: Criticized for authoritarian rule and suppression of political opposition
Implications: His absolute monarchy represents a rare form of governance in Africa; his rule has led to significant political repression and has hindered democratic development in Eswatin