Standard Bank suspends economist Chris Hart for tweet with 'racist undertone'
JOHANNESBURG - Standard Bank economist Chris Hart was suspended on Mondaypending an inquiry into comments he made on social media with alleged racist undertones.
Hart has been accused of racism on twitter after he expressed an opinion on attacks by black people on what he described as minorities.
Standard Bank says the comments carried racist undertones and intends to institute internal disciplinary proceedings.
In a statement, the bank said the process would ensure comments made on a personal basis would not be associated with the organisation.
More than 25 years after Apartheid ended, the victims are increasing along with a sense of entitlement and hatred towards minorities….— Chris Hart (@chrishartZA) January 3, 2016“Standard Bank has suspended Mr Chris Hart pending an inquiry into the events of his commentary on Twitter on Sunday 3 January. The inquiry will be conducted in line with the bank’s established protocols and its obligations in law," the bank said.
“Standard Bank has distanced itself from the comments made by Mr Hart, the outcome of the inquiry will be communicated once the process has run its course.”
His comments follow shortly after a furore erupted on social media over racist comments by former Jawitz Properties employee, Penny Sparrow.
Hart, who is a global investment strategist at Standard Bank, has since apologised for his tweet, saying it was meant to be read in the context of the slow economic growth.
This tweet has caused offense - never intended for which I apologize wholeheartedly. Meant to be read in context of slow growth— Chris Hart (@chrishartZA) January 3, 2016
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