Mandela grandson faces rape charges

The grandson of the late former president Nelson Mandela appeared in the Johannesburg magistrate’s court yesterday, where he faced a charge of rape.

Wearing a brown jacket and tight dark pants, the 24-year-old man, who may not be named until he has pleaded, stood in the dock as magistrate Pieter du Plessis explained that evidence presented during his bail application may affect his trial, if the matter made it to trial.

Through his lawyer Nico Swart, the accused indicated he wanted to proceed with his bail application.

However, the bail application was postponed yesterday.

He faced a Schedule 6 offence as his alleged victim is 15 years old.

The matter was temporarily stood down to give Swart time to obtain the accused’s affidavit from a colleague. According to the charge sheet, he faced a charge of rape, attempted rape and sexual assault.

Supporting him in court yesterday were family members Ndaba, Ndileka and Makaziwe Mandela. – News24.