Department of Social Development Reinstates Lumka Oliphant Following Arbitration Award
The Department of Social Development has officially confirmed the reinstatement of an employee, Lumka Oliphant, following an arbitration ruling issued earlier this month.
In a formal letter dated 29 October 2026, signed by the Acting Director-General of Social Development, Raphaahle Ramokgopa, the department announced it will fully implement the arbitration award handed down on 17 October 2026 regarding the matter between the department and Oliphant.
The reinstatement is scheduled to take official effect on 1 November 2026.
However, because the date falls on a Sunday, Ms. Oliphant has been requested to report for duty on Monday, 2 November 2026, at 08:30 AM at the HSRC Building located on Pretorius Street in Pretoria.
According to the directive sent to Oliphant’s legal representative, Matome Mametja of Mametja and Associates Inc., logistical arrangements have already been finalized to ensure a seamless transition back into the workplace.
The department noted that security has been briefed, a designated parking bay has been reserved, and the Director of Human Resource Management, KC Rakgole, will personally receive Oliphant at reception upon her arrival.
“The Department looks forward to the continued contribution of Oliphant to her work and would like to ensure that her return is smooth,” Ramokgopa stated in the correspondence.
The legal team has been requested to formally acknowledge receipt of the directive and confirm Oliphant’s return schedule.
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