BREAKING NEWS: Marjan Hussein Resigns as IEBC CEO Ahead of 2027 Election Preparations

Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chief Executive Officer Marjan Hussein has resigned from his position, bringing to an end a tenure that spanned more than a decade at Kenya’s electoral body.

Marjan, who joined the commission in 2015, announced that his decision followed extensive consultations with senior IEBC officials. 

While he did not disclose specific reasons for stepping down, he suggested that the move was part of a coordinated transition agreed upon with the commission’s leadership.

“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,” Marjan said in a farewell message. 

He also expressed gratitude to colleagues for the opportunity to serve and reflected on the years spent supporting the institution’s constitutional mandate.

In his communication to staff, the outgoing CEO praised commissioners and employees for their professionalism and dedication, particularly during the 2022 General Election and the period that followed. 

He urged the team to continue upholding integrity, transparency, and the rule of law as the handover process begins.

“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 tenure, Marjan oversaw the commission’s daily operations, including election management, human resource functions, and implementation of institutional policies. 

His office played a central role in coordinating electoral activities and ensuring administrative continuity within the commission.

The IEBC confirmed his departure in a statement released on the evening of Tuesday, February 3, noting that plans are underway to appoint an interim CEO. 

The commission emphasized that maintaining operational stability remains a top priority as the country gradually shifts focus toward the next general election.

“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 read.

Marjan’s resignation comes at a critical moment for the electoral body, which has been facing mounting scrutiny from political actors and sections of the public as preparations for the 2027 polls begin. 

Questions around institutional readiness, voter confidence, and administrative reforms have increasingly dominated national discourse.

Just days before the announcement, leaders from the United Opposition visited IEBC offices to raise concerns they believe require urgent attention ahead of the upcoming election cycle. 

Among the most vocal critics was Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua, who publicly expressed a lack of confidence in Marjan’s leadership during the meeting.

The criticism highlighted the intense political pressure often placed on electoral institutions in the lead-up to national polls.

Despite the uncertainty that leadership transitions sometimes create, observers say the IEBC’s immediate task will be to ensure continuity while reinforcing public trust. 

The timely appointment of an interim CEO is expected to help stabilize operations as the commission continues its long-term planning.

Marjan exits the commission at a time when expectations for electoral transparency and efficiency are higher than ever. 

His departure marks a significant administrative shift within one of Kenya’s most important constitutional bodies.