Former Presidents and Prime Ministers Around the World Who Reached 100

On Thursday, July 10, 2025, former Malaysian prime minister Mahathir Mohamad turned 100 years old. Mahathir Mohamad is the only leader of Malaysia who served two non-consecutive terms: from 1981 to 2003 and from 2018 to 2020.

His political career began when he joined the United Malays National Organization, the dominant party in Malaysia. Mahathir Mohamad was accused of being authoritarian, partly due to the use of the Internal Security Act, which allowed for detention without trial.

After retiring in 2003, Mahathir remained active in criticizing the government, especially during Najib Razak's corruption scandal. He returned as prime minister at the age of 92 after winning the 2018 election. His second term ended in 2020 due to a political crisis. Approaching the age of 100, Mahathir is still known for his activity. He often voices his opinions on global issues, including trade wars.

Several other former national leaders have also reached the age of 100.

Tomiichi Murayama

According to the Britannica website, Tomiichi Murayama served as the Prime Minister of Japan from June 30, 1994, to January 11, 1996. He was born on March 3, 1924, and passed away on March 9, 2025, at the age of 101.

Murayama is known for his statement of remorse for Japan's actions during World War II. This attitude made him an important symbol of Japan's commitment to peace following the war.

When celebrating his 100th birthday on March 2, 2024, Murayama expressed his hope that Japan would continue to maintain peace. He is the third prime minister in Japan's history to reach the age of a century, along with Prince Naruhiko Higashikuni (who passed away at the age of 102) and Yasuhiro Nakasone (who passed away at the age of 101).

Guillermo Rodriguez Lara

Guillermo Antonio Rodriguez Lara, former president of Ecuador, led the country from 1972 to 1976. He was born on November 4, 1923, and died on his 101st birthday, November 4, 2024.

Guillermo came to power after overthrowing President Jose Maria Velasco, who fled to Buenos Aires, Argentina, at that time. As a general, his government was often described as authoritarian. Nevertheless, his regime was also known for infrastructure development efforts funded by the increasing oil exports during that period.

Angelina Tiara Puspitalova contributed to the writing of this article

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