Hot91.9fm's managing director, Lloyd Madurai, Tuesday issued a statement announcing that the station has parted ways with presenter Sasha Martinengo after he referred to EFF leader Julius Malema as a 'monkey' on air.
The announcement made on the radio stations social media pages explained the motive for his dismissal with Madurai calling the incident "completely unacceptable".
"This morning an unfortunate and completely unacceptable incident took place during the Breakfast Show whereby, during the course of the broadcast, a reference was made by anchor presenter, Sasha Martinengo, who said “[A]nd people still listen to this monkey,” referring to Mr. Julius Malema," part of the statement read.
Madurai added that Martinengo had "violated the station’s code of conduct" and that the station has "elected to remove him from all involvement with the radio station with immediate effect".
"As such, notwithstanding the presenter’s immediate and unreserved apology, the station has forthwith elected to remove him from all involvement with the radio station with immediate effect. Furthermore, the station hereby issues a public apology to Mr. Malema and deeply regrets any adverse inference that the conduct of the presenter has had," the Madurai wrote.
Statement from Lloyd Madurai - Managing Director of Hot91.9fm.
For immediate release: 2 October 2018
This morning an unfortunate and completely unacceptable incident took place during the Breakfast Show. Full: https://t.co/Ec8zdAXg8X
— Hot 91.9 FM (@Hot919fm) October 2, 2018
Martinengo released a statement of his via Twitter, saying he apologises if he offended anyone but still stands by his words.
I’m sorry if I offended anyone,but I stand by what I said.
Anyone, irrespective of their race, colour, creed , religion, gender who disrespects a woman is a monkey.
— Sasha Martinengo (@F1sasha) October 2, 2018
Social media was quick to react after the announcements, with some listeners offering to Martinengo support, while others felt he deserved to be dismissed.
See comments below.
Fully agree with everything you said. The station should be supporting you, not firing you.
— Mike Briggs (@mikefbriggs) October 2, 2018
I would definitely be reporting you to the HRC and encouraging my branch to lay charges against you
— Mopedi Thwii (@PhaahleP) October 2, 2018
You really disappointed me Sasha, I have been your fan from 5FM
— Joel Billy Hermans (@hermans_joel) October 2, 2018
Heard you this morning and was wondering how this would come back to bite you.. Sorry man. Love the show but won't tune in if you no longer there.
— marc cozijn (@marccoz69) October 2, 2018
Where have you been for the last couple of years Sasha?. With present situation in South Africa you should have known better. There is no defending your actions no matter which way you squirm. We are all human and make mistakes. Own up to it and apologise unreservedly.
— Wolverine (@BAMFBIKER) October 2, 2018