The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is facing intense pressure from the United Opposition coalition to terminate its contract with the technology firm Smartmatic International ahead of the 2027 General Election.Â
Opposition leaders, including Kalonzo Musyoka and Eugene Wamalwa, claim the contract was illegally extended by CEO Marjan Hussein Marjan without proper oversight. They have called for Marjan’s resignation and the immediate nullification of the deal.
Following a high-tension meeting with IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon on January 28, 2026, the opposition, led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, issued a stern ultimatum: drop Smartmatic or face “unprecedented mass action.”
The opposition cites “black box” technology and alleged failures of Smartmatic systems in other countries, such as Uganda, as reasons to seek a more transparent, stakeholder-driven procurement process.
IEBC Chairperson Ethekon has noted that the commission is currently grappling with legal uncertainties and substantial legal liabilities that are hindering operations.
The commission faces a funding gap of roughly KSh 23 billion for the 2027 election cycle, alongside nearly KSh 4 billion in its own pending bills to suppliers. The opposition and IEBC have reportedly agreed to form a joint technical team to review the disputed procurement and governance issues raised.
By Anthony Solly
