Kaya 959 Point of View with Phemelo Motene

Fired Over Leak: Lumka Oliphant Dismissed from Social Development

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Lumka Oliphant, the outspoken spokesperson for the Department of Social Development, has been fired. Her dismissal follows allegations that she leaked details of Minister Sisisi Tolashe’s R3 million trip to New York. A letter from the Director-General confirmed Oliphant was let go after failing to respond to the misconduct charge. Meanwhile, Parliament’s Portfolio Committee is digging deeper seeking legal advice on how to hold the department accountable for irregular appointments and suspensions. Nzinga Qunta speaks with Bridget Masango, Committee Chairperson, on the latest in the department’s growing internal saga.
20 Oct 2025 4PM English South Africa Education · Careers

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