Diagrams 29 (a) and 29 (b) above illustrates that at more than 98% of the polling stations observed by CCJPZ, ballot paper serial numbers were declared and checked before counting. Diagram 29 (c) shows that there were no significant occurrences after closing that could have enabled tampering with the contents of the ballot boxes. This testifies that ballot papers counted at polling stations observed by CCJPZ were official. There were no scenarios where ballots from other precincts were inserted to consummate vote buying. It also follows that there were no staffing and 34 impersonation of ballots in 98% of the polling stations observed by CCJPZ. 5.3.3 Time taken Between Closing of Polling and Counting Since there is a strong correlation between the time at which results are announced and the extent to which suspicions are raised, CCJPZ observed the time taken between the closing of polls and start of counting. The following diagram summarizes CCJPZ observations; Diagram 30: Illustrating the different times intervals taken between close of polls and counting Diagram 30 above shows than in general, vote counting at polling stations observed by CCJPZ started within the shortest possible period of time. Voters' democratic choices were recognized and certified within 30 minutes after closing of polls at almost 80% of polling stations observed by CCJPZ. 5.3.4 Presence of Political Party Polling Agents during the Counting CCJPZ assessed whether political party polling agents were present during the counting process. The diagram below summarizes the findings from polling stations observed by CCJPZ; 34 Also see The Electoral Knowledge Network; ―Serial Numbers of Ballotsǁ at http://aceproject.org/electoral-advice/archive/questions/replies/912993749 Accessed on 11 October 2018 38