The ESN-SA deployed 23 observers in all the provinces of Zimbabwe to observe the last phases of the pre-election activities, Election Day and post- election phases of the 2018 Zimbabwe Harmonised elections. The ESN- Southern Africa Observer Mission notes the peaceful, serene and tranquil environment that has prevailed during the pre-election period and on Election Day. The ESN-SA commends the ZEC for the orderly and professional conduct on Election Day and the Zimbabwean police for their professionalism in policing the polls. The Mission applauds the people of Zimbabwe for turning up in their numbers and for the peaceful and non-violent Election Day. Election Day Environment On Election Day, the ESN-SA observers visited a total of 136 polling stations in the following provinces: Harare, Bulawayo, Mashonaland East, Mashonaland Central, Mashonaland West, Masvingo, Midlands and Manicaland. The mission observed all the stages on poll day of setting up polling stations, the opening of polls, casting of the ballot, closure of the polling station and vote counting. The environment was generally calm and peaceful, in the areas the Mission observed. The Mission congratulates the people of Zimbabwe for exercising their constitutional right to vote peacefully and commends ZEC for the efficient conduct of the election on poll day. The separate queues for the elderly, nursing mothers, expectant mothers and persons with physical challenges is commendable. The high level of participation of women as poll staff is also appreciated. Opening of Polling Stations Most of the polling stations that ESN-SA Observers visited opened on time and all the essential materials for polling such as ballot papers, ballot boxes, voters’ roll, ZEC stamps and voter’s roll exclusion lists were available. On average, there were 6 female polling officials at every station visited with long queues witnessed outside polling stations in the morning. Voting The Mission notes that in the areas visited by its observers, the voting process progressed smoothly throughout the day. The ESN-Southern Africa commends the ZEC for ensuring that the voting process proceeded in an orderly manner. Generally, observers and party agents were able to perform their duties without any hindrances. Page 40