Grace Mugabe due at South Africa summit after assault claim

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‍Zimbabwe’s first lady Grace Mugabe, who is seeking diplomatic immunity for an alleged assault in South Africa last weekend, is due to attend a regional leaders’ summit in Pretoria on Saturday.

The wife of President Robert Mugabe is accused of attacking a 20-year-old model with an electrical extension cord in a Johannesburg hotel where the Mugabes’ two sons were staying.

She has claimed diplomatic immunity after allegedly assaulting Gabriella Engels nearly a week ago — the reason for which is not known.

Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe and his wife, Grace. /Reuters Photo

The South African foreign ministry confirmed to AFP on Friday that the immunity application was under consideration.

The 52-year-old Zimbabwean first lady was in South Africa reportedly to have her ankle treated following a minor accident last month.

Her husband — 41 years her senior — flew into the country late Wednesday, the day after she failed to attend an agreed meeting with South African police over the alleged assault.

President Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe watches a dance performance at the Opening Session of the 37th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit of Heads of State and Government in Pretoria on August 19, 2017. /AFP Photo

The police have said they are on high alert to prevent her leaving the country, with an arrest warrant also reportedly being considered.

The incident has threatened to create diplomatic friction between South Africa and neighboring Zimbabwe, who have strong political and economic ties.

Grace Mugabe regularly speaks at rallies in Zimbabwe and is seen as one potential successor to take over from her increasingly frail 93-year-old husband.

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Source(s): AFP