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Many former African presidents contend with significant security challenges and political uncertainties after leaving office, impacting their post-presidential lives and regional stability. This trend raises concerns about governance and the treatment of past leaders across the continent.
Former African presidents frequently find themselves in precarious situations after their terms conclude, facing a range of security threats and political pressures. This reality underscores a broader issue of governance and the often-unpredictable nature of post-presidency in many African nations.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) recently highlighted these risks when a military court, on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, handed former President Joseph Kabila a death sentence in absentia for alleged treason and war crimes. Kabila, who was not present in court and lacked legal representation, has denied the accusations. This development exemplifies the legal and security vulnerabilities that can confront former heads of state.
Across Africa, political instability, coups, and terrorism threats contribute to the serious security concerns surrounding current and former leaders. Non-state actors have increasingly taken over security in some African nations, further complicating the landscape. Unemployment, corruption, poverty, and inequality are cited as major factors contributing to insecurity and hindering peaceful coexistence on the continent.
The transition from power often presents unique challenges for former African leaders. Historically, during eras of strongman rule, exile was frequently the only safe option for deposed leaders such as Idi Amin, Mohammed Siad Barre, and Mengistu Haile Mariam. While democratic transitions have introduced new possibilities, some former presidents still attempt to influence national politics, leading to factional divisions within ruling parties, as seen in Malawi and Zambia.
In Kenya, the Presidential Retirement Benefits Act of 2003 outlines a comprehensive package for former heads of state, including a monthly pension, entertainment allowance, staff, luxury vehicles, and extensive medical coverage. However, disputes over the disbursement of these benefits have emerged. In June 2024, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, through his spokesperson Kanze Dena, alleged that his office had received only KSh 28 million out of an allocated KSh 646 million for the 2022/23 financial year, representing just 4.4% of the total. Dena stated that the government cumulatively owed Kenyatta's office KSh 1 billion and that operational funds for the 2023/24 financial year had not been received, forcing the former president to use personal funds for office operations.
Conversely, in May 2024, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura dismissed claims of slashed benefits, stating that former President Kenyatta had received an accumulative pension of KSh 48 million and was receiving a monthly salary of KSh 1.6 million, along with KSh 1 million in monthly allowances. Mwaura detailed these allowances to include KSh 200,000 for entertainment, KSh 300,000 for housing, KSh 200,000 for fuel, and KSh 300,000 for utilities. He also affirmed that Kenyatta benefits from a KSh 20 million comprehensive medical cover for himself and his spouse, for both local and overseas treatment, and that the State provides furnished offices, 12 maintained and fueled vehicles, and a 33-member staff.
The challenges faced by former presidents can have broader implications for governance and stability in Africa. The perception of insecure or politically vulnerable post-presidency can disincentivize peaceful transitions of power and potentially encourage leaders to cling to office. This contributes to the concerning trend of ageing leadership on the continent, with over 50% of leaders exceeding 65 years of age, creating a disconnect with younger generations' ambitions.
Analysts suggest that the current developments could influence public debate and policy execution, with stakeholders calling for greater clarity on timelines, costs, and safeguards related to the treatment of former leaders. The ongoing discussions around presidential retirement benefits in Kenya, for instance, highlight the need for transparent and consistent application of established laws to ensure dignity and security for former heads of state while upholding public trust.
