Statement By Plettenberg Bay Ratepayers Association

22 December 2025

STATEMENT BY PLETTENBERG BAY RATEPAYERS ASSOCIATION

The Plettenberg Bay Ratepayers Association expresses its deep concern and condemnation regarding the alleged discharge and pointing of a firearm in a public residential area in Kwanokuthula, reportedly involving Bitou Municipality's Deputy Mayor Nokuzola Kolwapi.

If the facts reported are confirmed, this conduct is unlawful, reckless, and wholly incompatible with the responsibilities of public office. The alleged actions place lives at risk, undermine public trust, and bring the municipality, council leadership, and coalition partners into serious disrepute.

In South Africa, discharging a firearm in a public area is a criminal offense under the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000. Penalties vary based on the intent and consequences of the act but can include significant prison time, heavy fines, and the loss of the right to own firearms.

• Imprisonment: Discharging a firearm in a public place or built-up area without a "good reason" can carry a jail sentence of up to 15 years. While there is no fixed minimum penalty for the act itself, it is considered a serious offense by the courts.
• Unfitness to Possess a Firearm: Upon conviction, a court will typically declare the individual unfit to possess a firearm. This declaration invalidates all existing licenses and permits and generally bars the person from applying for new ones for at least five years.
• Criminal Record: A successful prosecution results in a permanent criminal record, which can impact employment and travel.
• Additional Charges: Depending on the circumstances, further charges may be applied:
  
  • Attempted Murder/Assault: If shots were fired toward people.
  • Reckless Endangerment: If the act put people or property at risk.

Our position is clear:

Rule of law must apply equally to all:
No elected official is above the law. The South African Police Service must be allowed to conduct a full, independent investigation without interference, favour, or delay. Any attempt to minimise or politicise this matter would be intolerable. Immediate action required from Bitou Municipality:
The municipal council and Speaker have a duty to act decisively. This includes:

• Immediate consideration of precautionary measures pending the outcome of investigations;
• Full transparency regarding any councillor code of conduct processes;
• Clear communication to the public on steps being taken to protect institutional integrity.

Silence or inaction will be interpreted as tacit approval.

Provincial oversight cannot be passive:
The Western Cape Provincial Government has Constitutional oversight responsibilities. Given the seriousness of the allegations and the seniority of the office involved, the Province must confirm what monitoring, intervention, or inquiry steps are being considered to safeguard lawful governance in Bitou.

Democratic Alliance accountability:
As the leading party in the governing coalition, the Democratic Alliance cannot distance itself from this matter. Voters are entitled to know:

• Whether internal disciplinary processes have been initiated;
• Whether the DA considers this conduct compatible with its stated commitments to lawfulness, ethical governance, and public safety.

An election year does not excuse misconduct, if anything, it demands higher standards.

This incident goes to the heart of ethical leadership, public safety, and respect for the law. Ratepayers expect those entrusted with power to exercise restraint, judgment, and accountability at all times—especially in public spaces and community settings.

We call on all responsible authorities to act swiftly, transparently, and decisively. Anything less further erodes confidence in local government and democratic institutions.

Tony Blignaut

Chairman

082 353 3643