ZESN Polling Station Analysis As in 2008, there is considerable variation between provinces with the urban provinces of Bulawayo and Harare having far greater estimated numbers of eligible voters per polling station than the predominantly rural provinces. Bulawayo and Harare have 1,130 and 1,466 estimated eligible voters per polling station compared to the other eight provinces all having less than 700 estimated eligible voters per polling station. This pattern of more voters per polling station in urban areas is to be expected and was also the case in 2008. Urban areas tend to have higher population densities and therefore require relatively fewer polling stations because of shorter distances for prospective voters to travel. In contrast, rural areas typically require more polling stations in order to keep the distance prospective voters have to travel manageable. Ward Analysis of Estimated Eligible Voters per Polling Station The 2013 Harmonised Elections will be conducted on a ward basis with voters being allowed to vote anywhere within the ward in which they are registered1. Thus, what is most critical for the 2013 Harmonised Elections is the estimated eligible voters per polling station by ward (not province). 1 Future elections will restrict individuals to voting only at the polling station where they are registered and hence a polling station analysis rather than a ward analysis will be more appropriate going forward. 4 of 19