‘Stop the lies’ — Social Development blasts Oliphant after suspension

Oliphant

Pretoria — The Department of Social Development has moved to clarify the circumstances surrounding the precautionary suspension of its Chief Director of Communication, Lumka Oliphant, following what it describes as “false and misleading” media statements by the senior official.

Oliphant was suspended with immediate effect on 1 September, pending an investigation into what the department says are “serious allegations of mismanagement” during her year-long tenure as Acting Deputy Director-General for Corporate Support Services in the 2024/25 financial year.

According to the department, a report by the Auditor-General of South Africa flagged significant irregularities linked to the mismanagement of funds within the Integrated Justice System (IJS) programme and the National Integrated Social Protection Information System (NISPIS) under Oliphant’s acting leadership.

The department stressed that the precautionary suspension does not constitute a finding of guilt but is intended to allow a fair investigation without interference. A panel will soon be appointed to conduct the inquiry, which is expected to conclude within 60 days.

In its statement, the department criticised Oliphant for what it called a “sympathy-seeking crusade” and accused her of using social media to discredit Minister Lindiwe Zulu’s successor, Minister Sisisi Tolashe, by making “wild and unfounded allegations.”

Oliphant has claimed her suspension was linked to suspicions that she leaked information to the Sunday Times about costs associated with a departmental delegation.

The department dismissed these claims, saying explanatory notes on the transfer costs of Deputy Director-General for Welfare Services, Siza Magangoe, had been provided to journalists before publication.

It further rejected media reports that South African delegates failed to attend sessions at an international summit, pointing to official programmes that outlined their roles.

“As a caring employer, we advise Ms Oliphant to refrain from disparaging the department or the minister and instead focus on the serious allegations of mismanagement levelled against her,” the statement read.

The department confirmed the appointment of Nomfundo Xulu-Lentsoane as Acting Chief Director of Communication in Oliphant’s absence.

The Department of Social Development said it would not provide “a running commentary” on the matter until the investigation is finalised.

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