By Marcus Moloko
The Deputy Mayor of Bitou Local Municipality, Nokuzola Kolwapi, is facing intense legal and political pressure following the release of a viral video showing her discharging a firearm during a public celebration.
The incident, which occurred in late 2025, has drawn direct parallels to the high-profile criminal conviction of EFF leader Julius Malema.
It is reported that the viral video of the deputy mayor took place in the KwaNokuthula township near Plettenberg Bay.
Kolwapi, leader of the Ikhwezi Political Movement (IPM), was allegedly attending an umgidi (homecoming ceremony) for her son, Tsepiso Martin, following his traditional Xhosa initiation.
The viral footage circulating on social platforms showed Kolwapi dancing among a jubilant crowd before raising a handgun and firing multiple rounds into the air.
Of particular concern to the public and officials was the presence of children in the immediate vicinity as the shots were fired.
Kolwapi allegedly claims the weapon was merely a replica or toy gun used symbolically for the celebration.
However, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula was quick to dismiss this defense.
“We don’t play with guns, you can play with firecrackers, that’s how you celebrate. You don’t celebrate with a gun… As a mayor, she should have known the laws.”
Commentators on social media have noted that Kolwapi’s case almost perfectly mirrors the legal troubles of Malema.
The similarities between the two cases include Kolwapi in 2025 and Malema in 2018 to 2025 claim that the weapon was a toy. Malema was at the EFF’s fifth anniversary rally, before he handed the rifle to Adriaan Snyman.
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While Kolwapi’s legal process is ongoing, Malema was convicted and sentenced to five years of direct imprisonment after the court rejected his “toy gun” defense.
ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba has been at the forefront of calls for Kolwapi’s arrest.
He has criticised the South African Police Service (SAPS) for what he perceives as a double standard.
Mashaba questioned why Kolwapi was still roaming the streets despite clear visual evidence.
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Despite the authorised charges and political pressure from figures like Mashaba and Mbalula, no formal arrest had been made as of mid-April 2026.
The ANC in the Victor Molosi Region continues to demand a full probe to ensure public safety and the rule of law.
