Former Malta Football Association president Joe Mifsud’s libel sitting was aborted after the sitting degenerated into a shouting match involving the parties and their lawyers.

Francesco Depasquale ordered Dr Mifsud and the two lawyers out after things came to a head when lawyer Chris Bonett slammed his hand against a table.

Dr Mifsud was being cross-examined by Dr Bonett during libel proceedings initiated by Dr Mifsud in 2008 against his successor, Norman Darmanin Demajo and the newspaper Illum.

Mr Darmanin Demajo had written to the MFA secretary asking it to investigate allegations of financial wrongdoing. He had served as treasurer to the MFA prior to the year 2000.

The sitting was characterised by bickering between the two parties, with Dr Mifsud repeatedly insisting that his previous testimony be quoted back at him.

He maintained that the law stated that questions asked during a cross-examination should be strictly contained to the witness’s testimony.

The magistrate reminded Dr Mifsud that he was testifying and not defending the case, and instructed him to answer the questions being put to him.

Dr Bonett made reference a declaration by Dr Mifsud, saying he had used the word “emergency” in connection with UEFA solidarity payments which were given to the MFA to be distributed to local clubs.

However, lawyer Paul Lia, appearing for Dr Mifsud, sparked off an angry exchange by telling the court that Dr Bonett had only said that “for the newspapers”.

The situation escalated, culminating in Dr Bonett slamming his hand on the table that was in front of him in frustration.

At this, an incensed Magistrate Depasquale ordered the parties out of the courtroom.