Pastor Andre Olivier tweeted an apology on Wednesday for saying the reason whites have more money than blacks is because they work hard.

Olivier caused a widespread outcry on the issue of race and wealth in South Africa. He said he disliked the rhetoric that whites are the “problem” in this country. He said whites stole nothing from no one, and that the reason they have more money than blacks is because they work hard.

“If you are black, God will send you white people. The problem in South Africa, [we say] white people are the problem … no we are not. We have contributed to this nation and we still do. And if you want to know why white people have still got money … it’s because they work, so don’t drive them away,” said Olivier.

His remarks were construed by some as him implying that black people were poor because they were lazy.

In a series of six tweets, the pastor apologised for what he says were “poorly chosen words”.

“Reflecting on my sermon last weekend, I believe that it is right for me to express my regret for the hurt and offense that was caused by my statements made during my message. For that I unreservedly apologise. I recognise that my words were poorly chosen, particularly in context of where this country comes from.

“My comments did not reflect my intention, and I acknowledge the harm that has come as a result. I love all South Africans & am committed to build the country to overcome the wrongs of the past. Words cannot express my full remorse. I trust that my future actions will support the sincerity of my apology. #riverschurch“.

Earlier, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Julius Malema appears to have lashed out at the pastor on Twitter.

Malema’s tweet held a clearly veiled threat that this coming Sunday’s service would be “different” if the pastor did not “fall”.

“Racists must be fought everywhere including those hiding behind the pulpit…,” said Malema.

“Let the church suspend the pastor otherwise the coming Sunday service will be different. #Whitesupremacymustfall”.

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