Social Development spokesperson Lumka Oliphant has been reinstated after the Public Health and Social Development Sectoral Bargaining Council ruled that her dismissal was procedurally and substantively unfair.
The ruling orders the department to reinstate Oliphant without loss of benefits and pay her R1.53 million in back pay, according to a report published by IOL on Tuesday, 20 October 2026.
Oliphant was dismissed on 17 October 2025 following disciplinary proceedings over allegations of misconduct and financial mismanagement, which she disputed.
Under the ruling, she is expected to return to work on 1 November 2026. The department has also been ordered to pay the outstanding amount in two instalments, by 15 November and 15 December.
Her reinstatement marks a significant development in her dispute with the department after more than a year of suspension and dismissal proceedings.
No tags for this post.
