Local woman, Martha Musonza Holman, who runs Love Zimbabwe charity spoke out this week about the events that are currently unfolding in Zimbabwe.

Martha’s mother and two children live just outside the capital, Harare and she has been in constant touch with them to make sure that they are safe. Thankfully the demonstrations that occurred last weekend were peaceful, with people just wanting a change to happen in the leadership of the country.

Martha left Zimbabwe in 2001 when she was forced to leave after being physically assaulted by Government officials who accused her of teaching politics.

Since then she has carved out a life for herself in the UK, first in London and now here in Abergavenny.

Speaking to Oliver Hides on BBC Radio Wales, Martha explained what is happening at the moment in Zimbabwe.

‘Robert Mugabe is just being stubborn and has to go. He has been dismissed from his political party- Zanu PF and is now facing impeachment charges in the Zimbabwean Parliament.’

Martha was also asked about the future of the country, and whether the new leadership would be any better.

She explained, ‘ The person most likely to succeed Mugabe is Emmerson Mnangagwa who has been Mugabe’s right hand man for 30 years. We have to hope that he will take things forward and re-vitalise the economics of the country. As has been seen with the demonstrations, the military who represent Mnangagwa have been very tolerant and have actively supported the sacking of Mugabe. There has also been a promise that a new Government would re-engage with the West and open diplomatic relationships.

There is also an opportunity for the opposition party in Zimbabwe- the MDC-T to be partners in a new regime, as according to the rules of impeachment, two thirds of the Parliament have to agree. This means that the MCD-T have to be involved.’

Martha has also spoken on the Jeremy Vine show on BBC Radio 2 and on BBC Radio 5 live in the past week, keeping them up to date on developments.

She praised the help and support that local people and friends have given to her and her family. She said that she was touched by the fact that the Methodist Church in Castle Street, Abergavenny of which she is a member was keeping her in their prayers. She also thanked Monmouthshire AM, Nick Ramsay who promised to highlight the situation in Zimbabwe in the Welsh Assembly.

Martha said. ‘We have waited 37 years for this to happen. My children have never known a democratic existence, and have always lived in fear of any demonstration of freedom. We need change now’