Vladimir Putin has recently secured his fifth term as President of Russia, marking his 24-year tenure in power since assuming office in 2000.
While Putin’s leadership has been significant, it pales in comparison to some other long-serving leaders around the world as of March 2024.
Here’s a list of the top 10 longest-reigning political leaders:
- Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea holds the record with 44 years in power since August 3, 1979.
2. Paul Biya of Cameroon follows closely with 41 years in office since November 6, 1982.
3. Denis Sassou Nguesso of the Republic of the Congo has been in power for 39 years.
4. Yoweri Museveni of Uganda has served for 37 years.
5. Emomali Rahmon of Tajikistan has been president for 31 years.
6. Isaias Afwerki of Eritrea has held office for 30 years.
7. Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus stands at 29 years.
8. Ismail Omar Guelleh of Djibouti has been president for 24 years.
9. Vladimir Putin of Russia, along with Guelleh, also holds a 24-year tenure.
10. Paul Kagame of Rwanda rounds out the list with 23 years in office.
These leaders represent a diverse range of countries and political systems, each with their own unique circumstances and challenges.