Grace Mugabe immunity reports untrue: South Africa govt

The South African government has moved to dispel media reports that it was set to grant immunity to embattled First Lady of Zimbabwe

The South African government has moved to dispel media reports that it was set to grant immunity to embattled First Lady of Zimbabwe, Grace Mugabe.

Wife of the Zimbabwean leader is at the center of an assault allegation levelled by a 20-year-old model, Gabrielle Engels, who was allegedly whipped and injured by Mrs. Mugabe.

Reuters news agency on Friday morning cited a government source as confirming that Grace Mugabe will be granted diplomatic immunity to allow her return home.

What is likely to happen is that she will be allowed to go back home, and then we announce that we've granted diplomatic immunity and wait for somebody to challenge us.

“There would obviously be implications for our relations with Zimbabwe. Sadly the other countries in the region are watching us and how we are going to act,” the anonymous source is quoted to have said.

“What is likely to happen is that she will be allowed to go back home, and then we announce that we’ve granted diplomatic immunity and wait for somebody to challenge us,” he added.

Rights group Afriforum, which is advising Engels, said it would be illegal for Pretoria to give Mugabe immunity and branded the plans a “disgrace”. They have further hinted of hauling the government before court if Mrs. Mugabe is allowed to leave.