Would Zimbabwe really be better off without Mugabe?

I'm not the most optimistic of people and I'm wondering in real terms what is going to change. There are a lot of things wrong with the system - there's a lot more that we've got to do than just removing Robert Mugabe. And I think all of us would be unprepared if Mugabe does go because we've lived under his shadow for so long.

It would be excellent if we had a national people's convention. We absolutely need a new constitution. I hope we could get engaged in major planning, that we could realise our status in the global village, that the rights of minorities- lesbians, gays and also women's rights - would be addressed. We've lived in such fearful times- just to use our own names when we send a letter to a newspaper... There are also smaller things; I'd love to get rid of the iconology of the president. Tsvangirai's portrait shouldn't be hung up in every office, school and hospital. There's also a road that runs along the state house, that's been closed for years because he's so edgy and fearful. We'd love to see that reopened."

There'll be a phenomenal change if Mugabe is no longer in power. The opening of doors to the west again, the business links outside of the country, the jobs that will be created. This would bring all the things we've been craving for! For the past eight to 10 years, things have really been difficult for ordinary Zimbabweans. Lack of access to medication like HIV/Aids drugs, health facilities, doctors, jobs, food, basic commodities and all. If Tsvangirai gets into power, no-one will ever allow him to run the country like Mugabe did.

It will take years to really implement though. After a few months people will be frustrated that things haven't changed as much as they wanted them to. But things like freedom of speech will be immediate. Also, the MDC has promised to float the Zimbabwean currency as soon as they come into office, and that will make a difference even in the first few days. Prices have been so high. I will definitely consider, like many people living abroad like me, going back home. But we want to hear what the government has to say first, you need to be sure of a job and sure that you'll be able to play a role in rebuilding your country."

Of course there'll be a dramatic change if we get rid of Mugabe. There'll be a complete overhaul of the system. The politician coming in is not from the same party, he's got completely different values. For ordinary people here the biggest changes will be economic ones. Just being able to send your children to school, being able to go to the hospital; these are the most important things for us. For me as a journalist, I'll be able to practice without so many security laws that make it impossible for media practitioners now."