IRI/NDI Zimbabwe International Election Observation Mission Final Report 41 The largest observer group was coordinated by the Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN), which deployed more than 6,500 observers countrywide.63 ZESN implemented a comprehensive monitoring effort, which began long before Election Day and included examination of the BVR process, the deployment of 210 long-term observers, and implementation of a successful PVT (referred to as an SBO). Faith-based groups like the Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC), through its I Pray I Vote Campaign,64 deployed 226 observers in the country’s 10 provinces. ZCC also conducted a preelection assessment,65 which highlighted citizens’ increased interest in electoral participation but a deteriorating confidence in the ZEC. The ZCC also deployed an additional 1,000 observers to join ZESN. Another church group, the Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe (EFZ) assigned 800 observers to ZESN in addition to its own 100 observers. The EFZ was also a key member of the Election Situation Room (ESR) established by ZESN. During the electoral process, the EFZ and ZCC issued various statements calling for peaceful participation, which was an important contribution to the post-electoral peace and reconciliation process.66 63 ZESN 2018 Harmonised Election –Preliminary Statement. ZESN, July 31, 2018, www.zesn.org.zw/wp-content/ uploads/2018/07/ZESN-Preliminary-Statement-on-the-30-July-Harmonised-Elections.pdf 64 “#Iprayivote.” Iprayivote, Zimbabwe Council of Churches, iprayivote.co.zw/. 65 Zimbabwe Council of Churches Election Research Report. Global Ministries, 2018, www.globalministries.org/ zimbabwe_council_of_churches_election_research_report 66 A Church Plea for Peaceful Transition in Zimbabwe. Election Situation Room , Aug. 18, 2018, www. zimelectionsituationroom.org/index.php/2018/08/18/a-church-plea-for-peaceful-transition-in-zimbabwe/