Africa remains trapped in a leadership dilemma that continues to undermine its development and democratic evolution. While the continent boasts a young and vibrant population, it paradoxically remains dominated by leaders who have clung to power for decades. These ageing heads of state not only hinder democratic growth but also block the opportunities for younger generations to lead.

Paul Biya of Cameroon epitomizes this troubling trend. Since assuming office in 1982, Biya has remained entrenched in power for over four decades. At 92 years old, he holds the record as the world’s oldest sitting head of state and is Cameroon’s second president since independence in 1960. Despite his declining health and widespread dissatisfaction with his administration, Biya has accepted his party’s call to seek an eighth term in office.

Old Faces in a Young Continent

Cameroon is far from unique in this pattern. The continent is plagued by similar examples of sit-tight rulers. Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea has led since 1979, making him Africa’s longest-serving president. Others include:

• Yoweri Museveni – Uganda (since 1986)

• Paul Kagame – Rwanda (since 2000)

• Denis Sassou Nguesso – Republic of the Congo (since 1997, and also from 1979 to 1992)

• Isaias Afwerki – Eritrea (since 1993)

• Ismail Omar Guelleh – Djibouti (since 1999)

• Faure Gnassingbé – Togo (since 2005)

• Alassane Ouattara – Ivory Coast (since 2010)

These leaders remain in power through a mix of constitutional manipulation, control over electoral bodies, intimidation of opposition voices, and the suppression of civil liberties.

Cameroon’s 2025 Elections: Another Familiar Contest?

Despite his advanced age, Biya is not the only elderly candidate stepping forward. Bello Maigari, 78, Cameroon’s former prime minister and ex-Tourism Minister, has also thrown his hat into the ring under the National Union for Democracy and Progress. Similarly, Issa Bakary, a former government spokesperson and former Minister of Employment and Vocational Training, declared his candidacy, citing public demand for change.

However, real change seems unlikely. The ruling party, Rassemblement Démocratique du Peuple Camerounais (RDPC), dominates all state institutions, including the judiciary and the electoral commission. This stranglehold leaves the opposition disadvantaged and the public with few genuine alternatives.

Constitutional Engineering: Staying in Power at All Costs

A common theme among these long-standing African leaders is their penchant for constitutional manipulation. In 2008, Biya’s party scrapped Cameroon’s two-term presidential limit, effectively opening the door for him to rule indefinitely. Gabon followed a similar path in 2003, enabling President Omar Bongo to remain in office until his death in 2009. His son, Ali Bongo Ondimba, succeeded him and extended the family’s rule until his ousting in a 2023 military coup, shortly after a heavily contested election.

These moves not only reflect a blatant disregard for democratic principles but also set dangerous precedents. When leaders tamper with constitutional limits, they weaken institutions and inspire further authoritarianism.

When Change Comes Through Coups

Frustration with prolonged, unaccountable leadership has sometimes culminated in military interventions. Ali Bongo’s fall in Gabon is a recent example. After declaring himself the winner of a flawed election, the military deposed him, ending the Bongo family’s 56-year dynasty. While coups are not a solution to bad governance, their recurrence in Africa signals deep disillusionment with democratic processes that have been hijacked by incumbents.

A Stark Contrast: Leadership Beyond Africa

Globally, many nations serve as examples of orderly and progressive leadership transitions. New Zealand’s Jacinda Ardern became prime minister at 37 and stepped down voluntarily in 2023, citing burnout and the need for fresh energy. France’s Emmanuel Macron was elected president at 39. Even in the United States, President Joe Biden—at 82—has declared he would not pursue a second term in 2024, citing a desire to safeguard democracy and pave the way for the next generation.

Meanwhile, Africa’s refusal to embrace similar ideals has prevented many capable young leaders from stepping forward.

The Mandela and Jonathan Examples

Africa is not without role models of dignified and responsible leadership. Nelson Mandela stepped down after one term as South Africa’s president, earning global respect for his commitment to democratic norms. Nigeria’s Goodluck Jonathan also peacefully conceded defeat to Muhammadu Buhari in 2015, bolstering Nigeria’s democratic reputation.

These examples prove that African leaders can place national interest above personal ambition—if they choose to.

Youth and Innovation Left Behind

One of Africa’s greatest ironies is the coexistence of ageing leadership with the world’s youngest population. Over 60% of the continent’s population is under the age of 25, yet political power remains firmly in the hands of octogenarians. This generational disconnect stifles innovation, progress, and inclusiveness.

In a time when technology and artificial intelligence are reshaping the global economy, Africa continues to entrust its future to leaders with outdated mindsets. The result is stagnation, brain drain, and a growing frustration among the youth.

The Way Forward: Time for a Reawakening

Africa must embrace a political reawakening. Citizens need to demand more from their leaders and reject the culture of lifetime presidencies. Constitutions must be protected from manipulation, and term limits should be seen as safeguards rather than obstacles.

More importantly, the continent’s youth must rise to the occasion. They must engage with politics—not just as voters but as candidates, organizers, and change-makers. It is only through active participation that the tides can turn.

Conclusion: End the Era of Presidents for Life

Africa’s chronic problem of sit-tight leadership continues to drag the continent down. The time has come to end the tradition of presidents for life and embrace the energy and innovation of a younger generation. Africa can no longer afford to leave its future in the hands of ageing leaders clinging to power. With purposeful action and renewed civic engagement, the continent can finally break the cycle of stagnation and usher in a new era of accountable governance and sustainable development.