Ruth Kulundu is emerging as a key figure in Kenya’s electoral landscape after being nominated to serve as the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Commission Secretary of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). This appointment follows the conclusion of Moses Ledama Sunkuli’s six-month tenure and positions Kulundu at the forefront of preparations for the 2027 General Election.

Extensive Career in Election Management

With over 20 years in public service, Kulundu has dedicated much of her career to election administration and governance. Unlike some leaders brought in from outside, she has risen through the ranks within Kenya’s electoral system, earning respect as a seasoned career administrator.

Academic and Professional Credentials

  • Master of Business Administration in Strategic Management, University of Nairobi
  • Bachelor of Commerce, University of Nairobi
  • Associate of the Chartered Insurance Institute of London (ACII)
  • Associate of the Insurance Institute of Kenya (AIIK)
  • Associate of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, Kenya Chapter

These qualifications have underpinned her multifaceted expertise in administration, governance, dispute resolution, and election management.

Progression within IEBC

Kulundu’s roles have included Regional Elections Coordinator (2010–2017) and County Elections Manager for Siaya County, where she gained significant field experience. Notably, during the 2017 General Election, she made the critical decision to temporarily suspend campaigns in Siaya amid security concerns to maintain peace.

In March 2022, she was promoted to Deputy Commission Secretary in charge of Operations, becoming one of the commission’s senior-most officials and playing a key role in the 2022 General Election.

Legal Challenge and Vindication

Following the 2022 elections, Kulundu faced interdiction over allegations of gross misconduct and insubordination by then-CEO Hussein Marjan. She successfully contested the interdiction in the Employment and Labour Relations Court, which ruled it unlawful, allowing her to resume her duties and reinforcing her standing within the commission.

Leading IEBC Towards 2027

In recent months, Kulundu has been instrumental in guiding IEBC’s preparations for the upcoming 2027 polls. She has engaged with parliamentary committees on electoral reforms and strategic planning, and her anticipated role as acting CEO places her in charge of critical tasks such as voter registration, election logistics, and institutional reforms.

Her leadership will be pivotal in maintaining public trust and ensuring the integrity of Kenya’s electoral process as the country approaches another significant general election.