It’s Not Over For Grace Mugabe

Gabriella Engels, the South African model who was attacked with an electrical extension by Zimbabwe’s first lady, Grace Mugabe has refused to take a bow and be intimidated by the upper class favoritism. According to a lawyer, Gabriella has filled court papers challenging the government’s decision to grant Grace diplomatic immunity.

The wife of President Robert Mugabe allegedly attacked a 20-year-old model Gabriella at a hotel in Johannesburg where the couple’s two sons were staying.

The attack left Engels with cuts on her head and forehead. She has filed an assault charge against the 52-year-old Grace Mugabe.

South Africa’s foreign affairs ministry said at the weekend that it had granted Mugabe immunity allowing her to leave the country.

Engels and AfriForum, a civil rights group which helps victims of crime, filed an injunction asking the court to annul the minister’s decision.

“The (foreign affairs) minister misinterpreted the law. She applied the wrong principles,” AfriForum lawyer Willie Spies told AFP.

They are seeking an order to set aside the minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane’s decision “recognising the immunities and privileges” of Grace Mugabe, according to court documents seen by AFP.

They also asking the court to declare that the diplomatic immunity decision “does not confer immunity from prosecution.”