Passion or Profession: President

Period: 1952–

Déby was an officer in Chad's military when he formed the Patriotic Salvation Movement, a rebel group that deposed President Hissène Habré in 1990. Déby was named president of an interim government in 1991, then won multiparty presidential elections in 1996, 2001, and 2006. During his administration, Déby has struggled against anti-government factions and has overseen the development of Chad's oil industry. He is also accused of manipulating elections and installing a system of political favoritism.