IEBC CEO Marjan Hussein Marjan Resigns Amid Growing Pressure Ahead of 2027 Polls
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chief Executive Officer, Marjan Hussein Marjan, has officially resigned from his position, bringing to an end his long service at the electoral body.
Marjan, who has been part of the IEBC since 2015, announced that his decision to step down was reached after wide consultations with senior officials within the commission.
In his resignation statement, he did not go into detail about the specific reasons behind his exit but made it clear that the move was mutually agreed upon between him and the commission’s top leadership.
In a letter addressed to IEBC staff, Marjan expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to serve the commission over the years.
He noted that the transition process had been carefully structured to ensure continuity within the Office of the Commission Secretary and Chief Executive Officer.
“As you may be aware, the Commission and I have mutually agreed on a structured transition in the Office of the Commission Secretary/Chief Executive Officer. I write to you today to express my sincere appreciation to each one of you for the privilege of serving alongside you over the years,” part of his letter read.
Marjan went on to thank both commissioners and IEBC employees for maintaining professionalism throughout his tenure.
He particularly praised their commitment during the 2022 General Election and the period that followed, describing the experience as demanding but successfully managed through teamwork and dedication.
He urged staff members to continue upholding integrity, transparency, and the rule of law as the handover process begins.
Reflecting on his journey at the commission, Marjan said it had been an honour to work with a resilient and hardworking team that remained committed to fulfilling IEBC’s constitutional mandate.
“Since joining the Commission in April 2015, first as Deputy Commission Secretary/Chief Executive Officer and later as Commission Secretary/Chief Executive Officer, it has been an honour to work with a professional, dedicated, and resilient team,” he stated.
During his time as CEO, Marjan played a key role in overseeing the commission’s daily operations. His responsibilities included managing elections, supervising human resource functions, coordinating administrative processes, and ensuring the implementation of IEBC policies and strategic objectives.
The IEBC later confirmed Marjan’s departure in a statement released on Tuesday evening, February 3. The commission noted that arrangements were underway to appoint an interim CEO, saying an announcement would be made in due course.
In the same statement, the IEBC emphasized its commitment to strengthening institutional preparedness as the country moves closer to the next general election.
The commission highlighted the importance of a strong and efficient secretariat in delivering credible electoral services.
“The IEBC Secretariat is very crucial in service delivery on electoral management, and it is the intention of the Commission that it reflects the level of preparedness, passion, and commitment required to deliver credible, free, and fair elections in Kenya,” the statement said.
Marjan’s resignation comes at a sensitive time for the electoral body, which is facing increased scrutiny and pressure from opposition leaders and members of the public ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Only days before his exit, leaders from the United Opposition coalition visited the IEBC offices, where they raised concerns they said needed urgent attention as preparations for the next polls begin.
During that visit, Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua was especially vocal, openly questioning Marjan’s leadership and expressing a lack of confidence in his ability to steer the commission forward.
The developments mark a significant moment for the IEBC as it navigates leadership changes while under public and political pressure to rebuild trust and ensure credible future elections.
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