Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Commission Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, Marjan Hussein Marjan/HANDOUT
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chief Electoral Officer Marjan Hussein Marjan has warned about voter apathy hindering election processes.
Marjan says the apathy, coupled with logistical challenges, poses a great threat to the conduct of a democratic, free and fair exercise while calling for concerted efforts to address them.
“Voter apathy, logistical challenges, misinformation, and isolated security incidents remind us that electoral management is a continuous learning process,” he said.
He added, “Addressing these issues requires adaptive strategies, robust stakeholder coordination, and proactive communication to ensure that every voter has access to a credible and safe voting experience.
Marjan was speaking at a Nairobi hotel on Monday morning during a stakeholders’ gathering to reflect on the recent by-elections conducted across the country.
The by-elections of November 27, 2025, involved 22 electoral areas across diverse counties and wards.
The areas included: Baringo, Mbeere North, Kasipul, Ugunja, Banissa, Malava, Magarini and wards in Kariobangi North, Fafi, Lake Zone, Narok Town, among others while no elections in Tembelio and Metkei Wards due to unopposed candidates.
“While each election presented unique circumstances, collectively they offered a comprehensive picture of IEBC’s operational preparedness, technological deployment, and stakeholder engagement strategies,” he said.
Marjan said IEBC’s operational teams ensured that all polling stations were adequately staffed, election materials were delivered on time, and voter education campaigns reached even the most remote areas.
“The deployment of KIEMS technology, coupled with a responsive troubleshooting network, enabled efficient voter identification and result transmission.”
He added, “I would like to acknowledge the extensive efforts of our partners in civic engagement, including 173 observer organisations, hundreds of media personnel, and thousands of voter educators who helped inform, guide, and reassure the electorate.”
IEBC says isolated incidents occurred in Mbeere North, Kasipul, Narok Town, Banissa, Kabuchai/Chwele, Malava, Nyansiongo, Ekerenyo, Fafi, including assaults on officials, vandalism and destruction of election materials, voter bribery and impersonation and interference by organised groups.
The IEBC said it remains committed to delivering credible, inclusive, and efficiently managed elections, reinforcing public confidence in Kenya’s democratic governance.
“In closing, let me reaffirm IEBC’s commitment to operational excellence, transparency, and the safeguarding of electoral integrity,” Marjan told the forum adding, “Together, we can continue building an electoral environment where every Kenyan voter is empowered, every election is credible, and democracy thrives.”
