Queer music duo The Billionaires condemn Ngizwe Mchunu’s homophobic remarks: ‘We will not be erased’

The queer music duo The Billionaires have spoken out against former broadcaster Ngizwe Mchunu’s recent homophobic comments, describing them as a “direct attack” on the LGBTQIA+ community.

Speaking to “Independent Media Lifestyle”, the duo, Ngcebo Mdima and Karabo Motlogelwa, said: “As a queer duo, we condemn Ngizwe Mchunu's homophobic hate speech in the strongest terms."

"His words are a direct attack on our existence and the existence of our community, inciting violence and reinforcing the bigotry that fuels anti-queer violence in South Africa.”

The duo said that they will not be silenced or erased from their own culture.

"Our identity and our art are not up for debate, and we stand unapologetically with every member of the LGBTQIA+ community. We use our platform to spread joy and unity, and we call on all South Africans to reject this hatred and affirm the right for everyone to live freely and authentically.”

Mchunu’s comments came after a picture of a same-sex traditional wedding circulated online.

He accused the LGBTQIA+ community of disrespecting the Zulu culture, claiming that gay couples should not wear traditional regalia associated with the Zulu nation.

In his posts, Mchunu described homosexuality as an abomination and went further to name individuals, including television personality Somizi Mhlongo, saying that they should leave the country.

In a recent public appearance, Mhlongo addressed the ongoing attacks.

“With regards to what’s going on right now with the homophobic thing, my caution to you is don’t allow them to make you emotional,” he said to the crowd.

“You know who you are. Don’t stoop to their level. Don’t swear back. All you have to do is be yourself a hundred percent. I’m not inciting violence, but there needs to come a point where they know who we are and that we’re not backing down.”

Mchunu’s remarks quickly spread across social media, drawing widespread criticism.

Many South Africans, especially members of the LGBTQIA+ community, expressed concern about the harm such statements cause. Activists warned that rhetoric from public figures can reinforce stigma and put lives at risk.

The controversy comes during Pride Month, a time dedicated to celebrating LGBTQIA+ identity and honouring the contributions of queer people to society.

For many, Mchunu’s remarks were a reminder of the persistent dangers queer South Africans face, even as they fight for equality and recognition. 

The KwaZulu-Natal Legislature has since called on Mchunu to apologise.

Speaker Nontembeko Boyce said his comments “undermine the dignity and equality of individuals and stand in direct conflict with the values enshrined in our Constitution.”

Boyce added that KZN has witnessed some of the most brutal killings of LGBTQIA+ people in SA.

“Families continue to mourn loved ones who have been targeted simply because of who they are or whom they love,” she said. “It is against this painful backdrop that Mchunu’s remarks are particularly dangerous.”