Former US President Barack Obama sparked a debate about ageing leadership and the grip of political power when he said, “It’s fair to say that 80% of the world’s problems involve old men hanging on who are afraid of death and insignificance, and they won’t let go.” Obama made the remark during a conversation with British historian David Olusoga at London’s O2 Arena on September 24, 2025. He continued by describing such leaders as people who “build pyramids” and put their names on everything because they become anxious about their own significance. The comment was widely interpreted as a criticism of powerful older men who struggle to step aside, although Obama did not identify a specific leader in the remark.
Get breaking news anytime, anywhere. Download the TOI app now!
