Special advisor to Public Service and Administration Minister Ngoako Ramatlhodi on Thursday laid down the principles that govern conduct of officials.

This was after a rant by Lumka Oliphant, spokeswoman for Social Development Minister Bathabile Dlamini, on Wednesday.

Mahlodi Muofhe said he had seen Oliphant's comments.

"Minister Ngoako Ramatlhodi, as the custodian of public service and administration, expects public servants to conduct themselves in a manner that will not compromise the integrity of the public service.

"We are governed by the Public Service Act and the code of ethics, which implore public servants to apply the principles of Batho Pele in any given circumstances," Muofhe said.

Oliphant defended Dlamini on Facebook, after The Citizen reported her appearing "unsteady on her feet" at a recent event.

"Anyone of you who wish to use this post for your articles, go the f*** ahead! Yes, the f*** ahead," she wrote on Facebook. The rants relate to reports that Dlamini's behaviour at an event in Germiston left people "wondering if she was drunk".

Muofhe warned against subjecting Oliphant to a public hearing . The Public Service Commission declined to speak to TMG Digital and referred the matter to the Department of Public Service and Administration. - TMG Digital