Introduction The Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) observed the three local government by-elections in Harare, Karoi and Zaka. The By-elections where called in following the death of seating councilors in the following wards Sunningdale ward 12, Karoi Town Council ward 10 and Zaka RDC ward 32. ZESN deployed 14 accredited observers both mobile and static to observe the by-elections. ZESN observers reported a peaceful electoral process in all three wards albeit the heavy police presence that was reported particularly in Sunningdale Ward 12 and Karoi Town Council ward 10. ZANU PF was victorious in all the 3 wards. The by elections were characterized by a decrease in voter turnout as shown by the turnout compared to the number of registered voters in the wards. A new political player in the form of the newly formed NCA took part in the elections. ZANU PF and the MDC T contested and there was the notable absence of the MDC. Methodology ZESN used a two pronged approach to observe the electoral processes. Static and mobile observers were deployed to the three wards. In additions, ZESN used long term observers to observe the pre-election environment and kept a keen interest on the media. Legal framework The Electoral Act (section 121 and 121A) mandates the Election Commission to organize by elections to fill vacant seats in a given ward. The by elections in the three wards came as a result of the death of the three councilors elected in the July 31 Harmonized elections. Pre-election environment The pre-election period was relatively peaceful with a few incidents of violence reported only in the Sunningdale Ward 10. The pre-election processes were carried out in accordance to the laws of the country. The preparations for the by-elections went on smoothly with nomination process, preparation of essential materials and accreditation of observers, deployment of election officials also having been done on good time. Election Day All polling stations opened on time and voting started on schedule although short queues were witnessed. Voters trickled in after the opening of polling stations. All essential materials were sent to polling stations in good time and ZESN commends ZEC for their preparedness. The voting 2|Page