BusinessLive reports that Gauteng radio station Hot 91.9FM has fired presenter Sasha Martinengo after he referred to EFF leader Julius Malema as a “monkey” on air.  

The station's MD, Lloyd Madurai, said in a statement:  "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: ‘And people still listen to this monkey’, referring to Mr Julius Malema."  He said Martinengo had been removed from the station with immediate effect.  He added:  "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."  Martinengo said on his official Twitter account:  "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."

• This short report is at BusinessLive

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