IEBC CEO Marjan Hussein Marjan Resigns: What It Means for Kenya’s Democracy and for Families
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has entered another period of transition following the resignation of its Chief Executive Officer, Marjan Hussein Marjan, on February 3, 2026. His departure comes just over a year before the end of his contract, which was set to expire in March 2027 only months ahead of Kenya’s next General Election.
A Resignation by Mutual Agreement
IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon confirmed that Marjan’s exit followed a mutual agreement between the commission and the CEO. According to the commission, the decision was part of a structured transition aimed at stabilising the institution and strengthening internal systems as the country prepares for the 2027 polls.
Internal Crisis and Governance Questions
Marjan’s resignation follows days of intense internal deliberations. Reports indicate that emergency meetings were held on Monday and Tuesday prior to the announcement, during which the CEO was questioned over procurement decisions and broader governance concerns. These issues have reportedly weighed heavily on the commission at a time when public confidence in electoral institutions remains fragile.
Political Pressure Ahead of 2027
The resignation also comes amid mounting political pressure. Leaders from the United Opposition had openly expressed a lack of confidence in Marjan’s ability to oversee a credible and transparent election in 2027. While the IEBC has framed the exit as an internal administrative decision, the political climate surrounding electoral preparedness cannot be ignored.
Marjan’s Legacy at IEBC
Marjan joined the IEBC in 2015 and became a familiar figure within the commission’s secretariat. After the departure of former CEO Ezra Chiloba, he served in an acting capacity for five years before being confirmed as substantive CEO in March 2022. His tenure spans some of the most contested and scrutinised electoral cycles in Kenya’s recent history, placing him at the centre of both institutional continuity and controversy.
What Happens Next
The IEBC has announced that an interim replacement will be named in due course to serve as Acting CEO and Secretary. The commission says this leadership change is part of broader reforms focused on accountability, efficiency, and restoring public trust ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Why This Matters to Parents and Families
For many Kenyan families, elections are not just political events, they shape economic stability, access to services, and the future their children will grow into. Trust in electoral institutions underpins national stability, which directly affects households, schools, and communities. As the IEBC undergoes this transition, parents will be watching closely, hoping that reforms translate into a credible process that safeguards the country’s democratic future for the next generation.
As Kenya counts down to 2027, the focus now shifts to whether the IEBC can steady its leadership, rebuild confidence, and deliver an election process that families can trust.
