IEBC's Eratus Ethekon Defends Marjan A Day After His Resignation

IEBC’s Eratus Ethekon Defends Marjan A Day After His Resignation

IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon has come out to defend former Chief Executive Officer Marjan Hussein Marjan.

Ethekon complimented his professionalism and long dedication to the country barely one day after resigning from the commission.

He also described Marjan as a dedicated public servant who had worked for Kenya’s electoral body for many years.

He was responding to the growing public debate and media speculation over the leadership change.

“He is a serious professional who has rendered service to this nation since 2015,” Ethekon said.

“He has served in a very high position, first as Deputy CEO and later as CEO, and he did so with dedication and selflessness.”

The resignation of former IEBC CEO Marjan Hussein Marjan was deemed to be in the country’s best interest as IEBC prepares for the 2027 General Election. Chairperson Erastus Ethekon said the decision was reached by mutual agreement after Marjan oversaw two general elections.… pic.twitter.com/VSEEO5SPNj
— KTN News (@KTNNewsKE) February 4, 2026

The IEBC chair emphasized the importance of respecting Marjan’s contribution and warned against attempting to tarnish his reputation through rumors and unverified claims.

“We should not invent things that are not there to try and character assassinate or malign him. It is not fair to the individual,” he said.

Ethekon directly challenged the media, accusing some outlets of exaggerating the circumstances surrounding the resignation and promoting speculation instead of factual reporting.

“As much as you are looking for stories, look at the individual as well and the harm that can be caused by peddling rumours, innuendos and imaginations,” he said.

According to Ethekon, the decision for Marjan’s exit was concluded amicably, with commissioners parting on good terms.

“Yesterday we agreed, we finished our work, and we all went home very happy. But when you hear stories in the media, it is like there are other narratives that did not exist,” he added.

He urged the public and journalists to avoid exaggerating the situation.

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The chair emphasized that unnecessary speculation could harm institutions like the IEBC, particularly at a critical time when preparations for the 2026 General Election begin.

“In the interest of the country, let us not create issues that were not there,” Ethekon said.

The remarks come just a day after Marjan Hussein Marjan officially resigned from his role as CEO, a move the IEBC leadership has maintained was guided by the law and reached through mutual agreement.

As the commission moves forward with internal changes and plans to recruit a new CEO, Ethekon reiterated the need for professionalism, truthfulness and responsible reporting to safeguard both individuals and public institutions.

IEBC’s Eratus Ethekon Defends Marjan A Day After His Resignation