Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe, the son of late Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe, and his co-accused Tobias Mugabe Matonhodze, have abandoned their bail applications and are negotiating a plea deal with the State, according to their lawyer Sinenhlanhla Mnguni.
The case against the two was postponed at the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court to allow for plea discussions, which are reportedly at an advanced stage. Mnguni said the negotiations between the State and defence are progressing well, but could not be concluded due to the unavailability of a senior public prosecutor.
Plea Negotiations Ongoing
The defence lawyer expressed optimism about the ongoing negotiations, saying they are hopeful that the plea will be concluded successfully when the matter returns to court next week. The State prosecutor, Lufuno Maphiri, reportedly told the court that the plea agreement is awaiting input from a senior prosecutor who was unavailable due to other commitments.
Mugabe and Matonhodze face multiple charges, including attempted murder, possession of a firearm and ammunition, defeating the ends of justice, theft, pointing a firearm, and contravening the Immigration Act. They are accused of shooting a 23-year-old employee at Mugabe’s Hyde Park home in February, leaving the victim in critical condition.
Charges and Allegations
- Attempted murder
- Possession of a firearm and ammunition
- Defeating the ends of justice
- Theft
- Pointing a firearm
- Contravening the Immigration Act
According to the South African Government website, the Immigration Act regulates the entry and stay of foreigners in South Africa. The pair is expected to return to court next week, where the plea agreement is expected to be finalised.
The case has sparked interest in South Africa, with many following the developments closely. As the son of a former head of state, Mugabe’s case has raised questions about the treatment of foreigners in South Africa and the application of the law.
