African leaders must know when to go

As frail as he appears, Gen. (Rtd) Moses Ali, the 86-year-old second deputy prime minister of Uganda, recently danced while running for the East Moyo County seat he aims to contest in the 2026 general election.

One could understandably feel sympathy for the octogenarian at this age, as he should be residing in a retirement community or enjoying his remaining years with loved ones.

Sadly, this man still harbours political ambitions to become a national official. Due to age-related speech impairments, he struggles to communicate clearly. He uses a walking stick because he cannot walk unaided. He is always accompanied by helpers to ensure they catch him if he loses his balance.

He is not alone, however, as he is among certain African leaders who seem committed to holding onto power until the very end.

Paul Biya of Cameroon is one such leader; he has been president since 1982 and is the oldest head of state in the world at the age of 92. Next is Alassane Ouattara, an 83-year-old leader from the Ivory Coast and one of Africa's oldest. Then comes Nangolo Mbumba, 82, who served as Namibia's fourth president from 2024 to 2025.

The 83-year-old Teodoro Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea is a former military officer who has been the country’s second president since 1982.

Turning to our own history, Nelson Mandela, the first president of South Africa after apartheid, took office at the age of 75 — a moment many saw as a symbol of hope and reconciliation. Many believed that this was an essential step to maintain peace, foster democracy, and promote unity. He was praised for knowing when to pass the baton and served only one five-year term. His presidency was an exception.

Further to the north, there was Robert Mugabe, who led the Zimbabwean nation from 1980 until 2017, passing away two years after resigning as president at the age of 93. He clung to power until his own party compelled him to step down.

This political trajectory is a common happening in African politics — either dying in office or being forcibly removed when one has overstayed their welcome.

But there are some good signs. The 37-year-old Ibrahim Traoré, who has served as Burkina Faso's acting president since 2022, is welcome. We hope that the notorious African trend won't apply to his early presidency.