THE OLIPHANT IN THE ROOM

I think she was fully aware that she had an array of options. And she chose to be bold and daring … taking power head on.

Nay, she dragged it by the scruff of its neck into a public spectacle.

Worse, they had suspended her with immediate effect. They did not follow process. Sit her down, engage to explain charges, if any..

She was disrespected by email and bullied.

It was a colission. In fact, an accident waiting to happen.

She felt bullied and snapped. Some ministers and DGs do this without justification.

To accept a toxic relationship, you must be afraid and fear that you will be punished for speaking the truth. A positive and constructive one will energize you to speak openly and honestly, without fear.

And this was a defining moment for DSD Head of Communications, Ms Lumka Oliphant.

But this goes beyond her. It must mark a turning point for government communicators. To be on the side of Truth, Openness and Transparency. Always.

To ‘Lumka,’ if correct, is to watch out. To beware. It is a warning.

Beware of the elephant that will trample you.

So, what was destined to happen, happened. The strong willed, head strong and feisty girl from Langa township in the Cape Flats exploded out of her self-restraint.

She could not take the hurt, humiliation and suppression any longer. She made a choice that could cost her dearly in her personal and professional life.

Most say she should have bitten her tongue. Kept silent to protect and preserve her position, status and benefits.

But she drew a line on the sand: I will not take this abuse, anymore.

It was her characteristic fearlessness that she displayed. A quality that has faded among the Comprador.

She was traumatized and in deep pain.

It is unprecedented for a government head of communication to openly dare and challenge a Minister. She was defiant, standing on the side of Her Truth. Calling her boss names.

In some instances, communicators and spokespersons are hidden and buried in the background, not doing what they paid for. Muzzled and muted.

But Lumka got tired of idolising her problems or their alleged source.

Carrying burdens of stress.  She did not tremble with fear. Not anymore.

I think this government will not make progress or make headway until heads of communication stand their ground to reclaim their positions and role.

It is not to serve at the mercy of ministers or DGs. Nobody is an ice-boy or girl. We are all equal and employed to serve the public in an honest and truthful manner.

It is to promote and protect the free flow of information between the State and Society, including the Media. Not to be gate keepers who keep secrets to hoodwink society.

I am not particularly familiar with the facts of what happened around the leaks at DSD. The inquiry is underway.  The case will be tested.

I think she may have fallen into a trap to get rid of her. It will be unfortunate.

But the big question is: is it true, correct and accurate that they splashed R3-million on a trip to New York?

If so, they must explain how that alleviates poverty and creates employment.

The problem is not the Oliphant in the room.

Everybody must face the consequences of their choices, including ministers and DGs.

In fact, they must just let her be to do what she is employed to do: to freely provide information, without fear or favor.