By Ezra Tshisa Sibanda
New information suggests that Zimbabwean professional Nothabo Zandile Tshuma, 42, was preparing to leave her marriage and start a new life with her two daughters, Natalie (15) and Nala (5), before they were found dead at their home in Bedford, England.
Friends say she and her husband, Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, 45, had already begun divorce proceedings and had recently valued their £1.3 million family home as part of plans to separate.
According to people close to the family, Zandile had decided to move on with her daughters, Natalie (15) and Nala (5). Some friends claimed she had reached a point where she could no longer continue with the marriage. They alleged that the relationship had broken down because of his alleged cheating and controlling behaviour.
Friends also claimed that Tshuma had previously told Zandile, “If I can’t have you, nobody will.” They further alleged that she had discovered several instances of alleged infidelity involving women in the United Kingdom, South Africa and Zimbabwe.
While she had forgiven him in the past, friends say she eventually decided the marriage could not be saved.
Those close to her said she believed leaving the relationship was the best decision for both herself and her daughters. They also claimed she felt isolated because of what they described as controlling behaviour, including restrictions on her friendships and contact with family members.
Bedfordshire Police have named Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma as the man they are seeking in connection with the deaths. Police say he left the United Kingdom through Heathrow Airport on Saturday and is believed to have travelled to Zimbabwe before the bodies were discovered.
Authorities are appealing for him to surrender and say they are working with local and international law enforcement agencies to locate him. The investigation remains ongoing, and no charges have been filed.
