The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has announced the opening of applications for the position of Commission Secretary and Chief Executive Officer (CS/CEO). This move is part of the agency's preparations for the 2027 General Election.

According to a vacancy notice released on July 28, 2026, the commission is seeking experienced and qualified Kenyan candidates to fill the role. Applications will be accepted until 5:00 pm on August 11, 2026.

Role and Responsibilities

The successful candidate will serve a four-year term, with the possibility of renewal for another four years based on performance. The CS/CEO will head the IEBC secretariat, oversee daily operations, and act as the accounting officer. Key duties include:

  • Implementing commission decisions
  • Supervising staff and managing resources
  • Coordinating the commission’s constitutional mandate
  • Ensuring compliance with public service ethics
  • Preparing annual plans and budgets
  • Overseeing financial and administrative management
  • Leading strategic plan implementation to ensure credible elections

Qualifications and Application Process

Applicants must be Kenyan citizens with a university degree and at least five years’ management experience. Relevant expertise in electoral matters, governance, finance, law, public administration, or political science is required. Candidates must also meet the integrity standards outlined in Chapter Six of the Constitution.

Application submissions should include a signed letter, detailed CV with three referees, certified academic and professional certificates, a copy of national ID or passport, and statutory clearance certificates. Shortlisted candidates will need to present original documents and clearances from several government agencies during interviews.

Applications must be sent via email to secretaryceo@iebc.or.ke, with the subject line "Commission Secretary/Chief Executive Officer (CS/CEO)". The commission encourages women, youth, persons with disabilities, and candidates from marginalized communities to apply. Canvassing will lead to disqualification, and only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

Background and Context

The recruitment follows the departure of former CS/CEO Marjan Hussein Marjan in February 2026. Since then, Moses Ledama Sunkuli has served as acting CS/CEO. His tenure has faced political criticism, including calls for resignation over alleged voter registration irregularities.

IEBC maintains the integrity of its voter register and electoral systems, emphasizing adherence to legal standards. The new CS/CEO will play a critical role in overseeing election preparations, procurement, voter registration, and policy implementation to ensure transparent and credible elections in 2027.