Global context: Leaders with decades in power
Hun Sen: Held office for nearly 38 years (1985–2023) before stepping down
Sheikh Hasina: Among the longest-serving elected leaders, with multiple consecutive terms since 2009
Angela Merkel: Served 16 years (2005–2021) as one of Europe’s most influential leaders
Narendra Modi :8,931 days (24+ years) as head of government (Gujarat CM + PM), among the longest continuous tenures in a major democracy
Modi’s journey as head of government began on October 7, 2001, when he took oath as Chief Minister of Gujarat. Over the next 13 years, he established himself as the state’s longest-serving chief minister before moving to national politics in 2014.
Modi’s key milestones and records
8,931 days in office as head of government (Gujarat CM + PM)
Surpassed Pawan Kumar Chamling’s 8,930-day record
First Prime Minister born after Independence
Longest-serving Chief Minister of Gujarat (2001–2014)
Three consecutive Lok Sabha wins: 2014, 2019, 2024
First non-Congress PM to complete two full terms and return for a third
Entered 25th year in executive office in 2025
Among the most-followed global leaders on social media
Reflecting on his journey, Modi has often spoken about taking charge during “very testing circumstances” in Gujarat, recalling the aftermath of a devastating earthquake, recurring droughts and political instability. He has said these challenges shaped his approach to governance and strengthened his resolve to rebuild the state.
A Senior Associate Editor with more than 30 years in the media, Stephen N.R. curates, edits and publishes impactful stories for Gulf News — both in print and online — focusing on Middle East politics, student issues and explainers on global topics.
Stephen has spent most of his career in journalism, working behind the scenes — shaping headlines, editing copy and putting together newspaper pages with precision.
For the past many years, he has brought that same dedication to the Gulf News digital team, where he curates stories, crafts explainers and helps keep both the web and print editions sharp and engaging.
