R3 Million Blowout? DSD Spokesperson Suspended Over New York Trip Leak!
CAPE TOWN - The Department of Social Development (DSD) is facing intense scrutiny after reports surfaced regarding lavish spending on a delegation trip to New York. The controversy has led to the suspension of DSD spokesperson, Lumka Oliphant.
According to reports in the Sunday Times, the department allegedly spent a staggering R3 million on five-star accommodation for its delegation attending a United Nations event. The report triggered an internal investigation, leading Minister Sisisi Tolashe to suspect Oliphant of leaking the information to the press.
In a statement, Oliphant confirmed her suspension, stating that Minister Tolashe believes she was responsible for providing the Sunday Times with details of the department's travel expenses, as well as information for previous reports published by City Press.
Oliphant vehemently denies the accusations, arguing that the information cited in the Sunday Times report originated from the Auditor-General's findings. She claims that the charges against her are fabricated and that the responsibility for the travel expenses should fall on the director-general, not her.
"These are the auditor-general's findings," Oliphant stated, emphasizing her long-standing relationships with journalists, particularly at City Press. She believes this connection has unfairly made her a suspect.
The suspension of Lumka Oliphant adds another layer to the controversy surrounding the DSD's New York trip. The public is demanding transparency and accountability regarding the use of public funds. Further investigation is expected to determine the validity of the allegations against Oliphant and to shed light on the department's travel expenditure practices.
Public Outcry and Calls for Investigation
The news of the R3 million expenditure has sparked public outrage, with many questioning the necessity of such lavish accommodations for a government delegation. Opposition parties are calling for a thorough investigation into the matter, demanding that those responsible for the excessive spending be held accountable.
What's Next?
- Internal investigation into the DSD's travel expenses.
- Determination of the validity of the allegations against Lumka Oliphant.
- Potential consequences for those found responsible for excessive spending.