NAIROBI, Kenya – The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has appointed Director of Electoral Operations Moses Ledama Sunkuli as its Acting Chief Executive Officer and Commission Secretary, following the exit of Marjan Hussein.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the electoral commission said Sunkuli’s appointment takes effect immediately and will run for six months, or until the recruitment and appointment of a substantive CEO is concluded.
The decision has drawn attention after the commission overlooked two Deputy Chief Executive Officers — Ruth Kulundu and Obadia Keitany — in favor of appointing a director-level official to the powerful administrative role.
IEBC opts for internal continuity
IEBC said Sunkuli brings extensive institutional knowledge to the role, having served as Director of Electoral Operations, a department central to the planning and execution of elections.
“This appointment follows the exit of the former Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Sunkuli brings extensive experience and internal institutional knowledge to this role,” the commission said.
The commission added that the move is aimed at ensuring stability and continuity as it prepares for key electoral reforms and upcoming electoral processes.
Press Release – Appointment of an Acting Chief Executive Officer / Commission SecretaryThe Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (@IEBCKenya) wishes to announce the appointment of Mr. Moses Ledama Sunkuli as the Acting Chief Executive Officer and Commission
Questions over succession choice
While the commission did not explain why the two Deputy CEOs were bypassed, the decision has sparked quiet debate about succession practices within independent commissions, particularly at a time when IEBC is under pressure to rebuild public confidence.
Both Ruth Kulundu and Obadia Keitany hold senior management positions within the commission and would traditionally be considered for interim leadership roles.
IEBC, however, defended its choice by emphasizing the need for operational continuity, particularly in election management and logistics.
Six-month interim tenure
Sunkuli will serve in an acting capacity for six months, during which IEBC says it will fast-track the recruitment of a substantive CEO and Commission Secretary.
“The Commission is committed to fast-tracking the recruitment of a substantive Chief Executive Officer while ensuring a seamless transition and maintaining the highest standards of service delivery to the Kenyan people,” the statement said.
The appointment was announced by IEBC Chairperson Erasmus Edung Ethekon, who said the commission remains focused on strengthening institutional effectiveness.
With Kenya’s electoral body undergoing leadership transitions, the choice of Sunkuli signals IEBC’s preference for operational experience over hierarchy, even as scrutiny over governance decisions within the commission continues.
