10 things we know about the #GraceMugabe saga

This story has had many developments since the allegations originally surfaced, and is believed to be the reason behind SA and Zimbabwe gounding each other’s planes over the past weekend.

1. The one who brought the allegations forward was model Gabriella Engels.

According to social media posts by Engels, Grace Mugabe attacked the model with an extension cord after finding her with her two sons.

Engels posted a series of tweets about the alleged assault and posted pictures of the head injuries and bruises on her body.

Attacking her?
With 10+ body guards watching how she was beating me?
I did not lift a finger on the first lady https://t.co/6qc0N4yQTc

— Gah-bee (@DaNamesGaby) August 14, 2017

What is a girl compared to a women beating you and 10+ body guards standing back leaving her to do this shit. https://t.co/bOpZ6vdBdX

— Gah-bee (@DaNamesGaby) August 14, 2017

She split my head open in 3 places.
With an extension cord and used the plug to hit me. https://t.co/WNf2Y1C5uK

— Gah-bee (@DaNamesGaby) August 13, 2017

I have to more injuries at the back of my head pic.twitter.com/fz3olUz9tN

— Gah-bee (@DaNamesGaby) August 14, 2017

2. Zimbabwe’s first lady was believed to have been in South Africa apparently to seek medical attention.

3. Grace Mugabe has received diplomatic immunity.

South African authorities on Sunday confirmed that Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe’s wife Grace has been granted diplomatic immunity.

International Relations and Co-operation Minister Maite Nkoane-Mashabane said that she had “recognised the immunities and privileges” of Grace Mugabe.

4. Unions and political parties such as the Democratic Alliance (DA) and South African National Civic Organisation (Sanco) all called on action against the first lady prior to her receiving diplomatic immunity.

5. As the storm raged over the alleged attack, Grace Mugabe flew back to Harare on Saturday evening with her husband, Zimbabwe’s President Robert Mugabe.

6. Civil society groups and opposition parties are pushing for a review of the decision that was made by SA’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation to grant Mugabe diplomatic immunity.