Opening and Setup, Voting and Counting Procedures In polling stations where ZESN observers were deployed, opening and setup procedures were successfully completed on time. Observers reported that all polling stations had all the required voting materials such as ballot boxes, ballot papers, ZEC official stamp, indelible ink and the voters’ roll at the time of opening. All polling stations covered by ZESN observers had adequate polling personnel with an average of six per polling station. ZESN observer reports show that the process was generally, peaceful and smooth with no major incidents reported. Counting At all polling stations where ZESN observed closing of polls and counting, the processes took place according to procedures and results were displayed outside the polling stations. At all the ward collation centres and the constituency collation centre where ZESN observed, all party agents signed the V11 form thus agreeing that the process had been conducted well. Assisted voters and turned away voters ZESN observers indicate that there were significant numbers of assisted voters. By close of polls, ZESN noted that an average of 25 voters were assisted at each polling station visited by mobile observers and the majority of these were illiterate. Disturbing figures were observed at Tsakare Primary School ward four and Chipfuri Primary School ward five where our mobile observers reported that 38 and 52 voters had been assisted by 13:08hrs and 15:42hrs respectively. Furthermore, ZESN noted that some voters were turned away and reasons for this included the fact that some voters presented themselves at polling stations without identity documents while some were bringing the wrong identity documents and others did not appearing on the voters’ rolls. Voter Education ZESN noted with concern that a large number of voters continue to be turned away in elections, an issue that could have easily been addressed by a comprehensive voter education programme. This observation is of concern given that voter education for the byelection was conducted. This therefore raises questions on the voter education methodologies employed, the reach and the timeframe allotted to the process. Political Party Agents It is regrettable that at most polling stations where ZESN observed only ZANU-PF had deployed election agents. ZESN notes that the failure by the other contesting candidate to deploy agents is unfortunate given that the presence of election agents is not only crucial in enhancing the transparency of the electoral process but provides candidates with a basis for informed calls for reforms to electoral processes. The role of party agents is provided for in the Electoral Law therefore political parties are encouraged to take full advantage of the provision. Police presence ZESN has repeatedly observed that police officers are actively involved in the election process especially in assisting voters. ZESN reiterates its position on police presence and roles inside the polling stations which goes against international best norms and standards. ZESN calls for the role of the police to be limited to maintaining law and order. 13 | P a g e