Africa's aging leaders are a topic of growing interest and concern. While the continent is known for its youthful population, it also boasts numerous gerontocracies, where leaders defy age and cling to power. This phenomenon is not unique to Africa, but it is particularly striking on the continent. Here's a closer look at some of Africa's oldest leaders and the controversies surrounding their rule.
Cameroon's Paul Biya: The World's Oldest Non-Royal Leader
Cameroon's President Paul Biya, 92, is the world's oldest non-royal leader. He has ruled Cameroon for 43 years and is seeking an eighth term in office. Biya's longevity in power has been marked by issues such as jihadist violence, a separatist movement, and systemic corruption. His strongest rival was barred from running, making his victory all but guaranteed. Despite his age, Biya remains a controversial figure, with some questioning his ability to address the country's pressing challenges.
Malawi's Peter Mutharika: The Older Candidate
In Malawi, the small southern African democracy recently elected 85-year-old Peter Mutharika as president. He defeated the incumbent, Lazarus Chakwera, who was 70. Malawians were tired of rising costs and severe fuel shortages, which fueled their decision. Mutharika's victory highlights the trend of older candidates winning elections, even in democratic settings.
Ivory Coast's Alassane Ouattara: The Constitution-Bending Leader
Alassane Ouattara, 83, of Ivory Coast, is running for a fourth term as president. In 2020, he promised not to run again due to constitutional restrictions. However, he later changed the constitution to allow himself to run again, sparking violent protests. Ouattara's actions raise questions about democratic principles and the rule of law in Ivory Coast, a country still recovering from a brutal civil war.
Equatorial Guinea's Teodoro Obiang Nguema: The Longest-Ruling Leader
Teodoro Obiang Nguema, 83, of Equatorial Guinea, is the longest-ruling leader in Africa, having ruled for 43 years. The country is effectively a one-party state, and elections are often flawed, with Obiang typically receiving over 90% of the vote. His rule has been marked by a shocking human rights record and a dire state of press freedom. Despite the country's vast oil wealth, ordinary citizens have seen little improvement in their lives.
Zimbabwe's Emmerson Mnangagwa: The Post-Mugabe Era
Emmerson Mnangagwa, 83, became president of Zimbabwe after deposing his geriatric predecessor, Robert Mugabe, in a 2017 coup. Mugabe was 93 at the time and held the title of the world's oldest leader. Mnangagwa, 18 years Mugabe's junior, promised free and fair elections and economic reforms. However, eight years later, many Zimbabweans say things are worse under Mnangagwa, who is dubbed 'the crocodile.'
The Rise of Gen Z: A New Generation of Leaders
Despite the prevalence of aging leaders, there are signs of change. Young Africans, known as 'Gen Z,' are becoming more vocal and organizing protests in countries like Kenya, Togo, Madagascar, and Morocco. This generation is demanding change and holding leaders accountable. Burkina Faso's 37-year-old interim president, Ibrahim Traoré, is one of the youngest leaders in the world and enjoys significant popularity among the nation's youth. Uganda's upcoming elections will feature popstar-turned-politician Bobi Wine, 43, challenging longtime President Yoweri Museveni, 81.
While Africa's aging leaders have dominated the political landscape, the rise of Gen Z and the increasing demand for change suggest a potential shift in leadership. The continent's future may be shaped by the clash between these two generations, with young Africans seeking a new direction and older leaders clinging to power.
