1. Executive Summary The ESN-SA deployed a 23 member Mission from Zimbabwe and the region (Southern and East Africa). The Mission observed the last stages of the pre-election period, Election Day, and immediate post-election. The ESN-SA, met civil society, political parties, the Electoral Commission, other observer missions, the Police and other stakeholders for briefings on the pre-election environment. The ESN-SA noted improvements in the administration of the elections and the political environment. The period leading to the elections was generally peaceful; however the accuracy of the voters’ roll; the design, printing and distribution of the ballot papers; and, postal voting were issues of concern that were raised by political parties and civil society organisations. On Election Day, voting proceeded in a peaceful and orderly manner, at most polling stations visited by the observer Mission. However, it was the post-election period, where demonstrations over the announcement of results, resulted in the unfortunate death of 6 citizens. The Mission notes the following areas that needs improvement and makes the following recommendations: Voter registration The ZEC should consider targeted voter registration drives for young people and those residing in the urban areas. Even though more youth registered compared to 2013, their registration rate is low compared to the older age categories. Media The ZEC should enhance mechanisms for monitoring the media and its reports or updates should be publicised. The public broadcaster should ensure fair and balanced coverage of all contestants, as well as the different geographical regions in the country. The media should desist from perpetuating hate speech and fake news. Voters Roll The ZEC should avail the voters roll to stakeholders in time to enhance transparency. The Electoral Laws should be amended to include specific timelines when the voters roll ought to be made available to stakeholders. Independent external audits should be commissioned by the ZEC to assess the quality of the voters roll. These audits will go a long way in building public confidence. Assisted voters Whilst the law is clear as to whom can be a confidante for an assisted voter, the rules need to be applied procedurally so as not to violate the secrecy of the vote. The ZEC Election Manual should provide adequate details on the procedure for assisted voters, so as not to compromise the secrecy of the vote. The ZEC can also consider other measures to reduce the numbers of assisted voters’, including comprehensive voter education, use 6