collating centre, is regrettable given the importance of having party representatives in polling stations to assess whether the by-election was held in conformity to local, regional and international standards and best practice. Police presence ZESN observers noted a heavy presence of police officers inside and outside of polling stations especially at the ward collation centres with an average of six police officers per polling station. While ZESN appreciates the need for to secure electoral processes, the Network is of the view that the number of Police Officers providing security at polling stations needs to be commensurate with the existing level of threat to the process to ensure optimum use of resources. Counting Counting procedures were done in line with the provisions of the law with political party agents confirming by signing the V11 forms at the end of the counting process in line with the requirements of the law. The election results were posted outside all polling stations where ZESN observed. Turnout ZESN observer reports show that the turnout was generally low especially for the youth in Mhondoro-Mubaira. Only 42% of eligible voters turned up to cast their vote on Election Day. This trend of low participation in electoral processes is consistent with trends observed during previous by-elections held in 2014 and 2015. It would appear from the comments received from member of public that voters are more concerned with investing their time in activities that have an immediate impact on their livelihoods than participating in elections. 12 | P a g e