List of African Nations with Political Parties Holding Power the Most Years

In the political landscape of Africa, several parties have held power for extended periods, shaping the destiny of their respective nations. Here's a look at some of the continent's longest-governing political parties and their impact on their countries.

Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), Botswana

The Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) has been the ruling party in Botswana since its inception in 1966, making it the longest-serving party in the country. Over a period of 58 years, from 1966 to 2024, the BDP has been instrumental in maintaining strong institutions and fostering frequent economic development, particularly through the revenue management of diamonds.

Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), Tanzania

Tanzania's Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) has been in power since 1961, making it Africa's longest active party with 64 years in power by 2025. The CCM has played a significant role in shaping Tanzania's political and economic trajectory.

Liberation Front of Mozambique (FRELIMO), Mozambique

FRELIMO has ruled Mozambique since its independence in 1975, marking a 50-year reign. The party has kept power through elections and conflict, playing a crucial role in the post-war reconstruction of the country.

Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF), Zimbabwe

ZANU-PF has been the ruling party in Zimbabwe since independence in 1980. Although its tenure has been marked by periods of political and economic instability, it has also overseen significant development in certain sectors.

People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), Angola

Since Angola's independence in 1975, the MPLA has been the ruling party, governing for 50 years by 2025. The MPLA led during the civil war and post-war reconstruction, playing a pivotal role in Angola's development.

The Congolese Party of Labor (PCT), Republic of Congo

The PCT has been a major force in the Republic of Congo's politics for 51 years, with two stints from 1969 to 1992 and from 1997 to the present. The party controlled the country through a one-sided system before losing power briefly in the 1990s.

The Rally for Democracy and Progress (RDP), Chad

The RDP ruled Chad from 1990 to 2005 and is credited with introducing multiparty democracy to the country.

The Democratic Constitutional Rally (RCD), Tunisia

The RCD operated in Tunisia for 47 years, from 1964 until it was dissolved in 2011 after the Arab Spring. During its tenure, the RCD oversaw both modernization and totalitarianism, first under President Habib Bourguiba and later under Zine El Abidine Ben Ali.

The Movement for Multi-Party Democracy (MMD), Zambia

The MMD ruled Zambia from 1991 to 2011, during which time it oversaw a period of economic growth and political stability.

The Socialist Party of Senegal (PSS), Senegal

The PSS ruled Senegal from independence in 1960 until 2000, marking a 40-year rule that significantly shaped the politics of modern Senegal. Under leaders such as Leopold Sedar Senghor and Abdou Diouf, the PSS established strong institutions and promoted political stability, even allowing for democratic reforms in its later years.

The Rally of the Togolese People (RPT), Togo

The RPT ruled Togo for 43 years, from 1969 until its dissolution in 2012. For most of its rule, Togo was a one-sided state with limited political freedom.

The True Whig Party (TWP), Liberia

The TWP ruled Liberia for 102 years from 1878 to 1980. It was an American-dominated party that ran Liberia as an aristocratic state for over a century.

The Rally for Democracy and Progress (RDP), Chad

The RDP ruled Chad from 1990 to 2005 and is credited with introducing multiparty democracy to the country.

The Peaceful Exit of the PSS from Power, Senegal

The peaceful exit of the PSS from power in 2000 helped establish Senegal's reputation as one of the most stable democracies in Africa.

The Effect of RPT in Togo

The effect of RPT did not end with its disintegration; it was replaced by the Union of the Republic (UNIR), which continues to rule under Faure Gnassingbé, son of Eyadéma. The structures and networks manufactured by RPT still shape the political landscape of Togo.

The Longest-Ruling Political Party in Liberia

The True Whig Party (TWP) ruled Liberia for 102 years from 1878 to 1980, making it the longest-ruling political party in Liberia.

The Collapse of RCD and the Inspiration for Regional Rebellions, Tunisia

Although Tunisia saw progress in education and women's rights under the RCD, political dissatisfaction was heavy. The collapse of RCD marked a significant turn in North African politics and inspired a wave of regional rebellions.

The Rule of FRELIMO in Mozambique

FRELIMO has kept power through elections and conflict in Mozambique.

The MMD in Zambia

The MMD ruled Zambia from 1991 to 2011, during which time it oversaw a period of economic growth and political stability.

These parties, each with their unique histories and impacts, have played significant roles in shaping the political landscape of their respective countries. Their tenures have been marked by periods of progress and setbacks, demonstrating the complexities of political leadership in Africa.