Alternattiva Demokratika Żgħażagħ has expressed its disapproval of Imam Mohamed El Sadi's views on his "explicit" homophobia and his justifying physical violence on people who commit a criminal offence.

ADŻ spokesman Dirk Urpani said: "While we are all out for freedom of speech, it is highly irresponsible for a religious leader to promote anti-social policies."

Though he was referring to non-European countries, certain rights were universal and acts such as cutting off hands of people convicted of theft should be condemned by anyone living in a democratic country, he added.

Mr El Sadi's homophobic references were equally disgusting and he should apologise to the gay community, especially for ridiculing same-sex marriages or unions by comparing them to "marrying a cat or a dog", AD said.