Bitou Deputy Mayor Nokuzola Kolwapi has denied firing a real firearm during her son’s traditional homecoming ceremony, stating the object in a viral video was a toy.
The video, circulating on social media, appeared to show Kolwapi discharging a gun in the air during her son’s *umgidi*—a Xhosa initiation ceremony—on Sunday. In a statement, she insisted it was a replica and accused political opponents, specifically the ANC, of exploiting the moment for political gain.
Kolwapi framed her actions as a challenge to patriarchal norms and a symbol of women reclaiming cultural and political authority. She connected it to the broader fight against gender-based violence, calling it a “declaration” rather than a threat.
The ANC in the Western Cape quickly distanced itself from Kolwapi, clarifying she is a member of the Ikhwezi Political Movement, which is in coalition with the DA in Bitou. The party condemned the act and called for a police investigation.
The Bitou Municipality confirmed the ceremony was a private family event and that police are investigating a case of pointing a firearm. Southern Cape SAPS confirmed the investigation is ongoing and no arrests have been made.
