Alternattiva Demokratika and Alternattiva Demokratika Youth (ADZ) expressed their disapproval of Imam El Sadi views condoning the chopping off hands of thieves and his explicit homophobia.

AD believed his talk during a programme on the national station, was “shocking”, especially when El Sadi usually comes out as a moderate and well-meaning cleric.

“AD respects the right for everyone to practise their religion, but we can never accept statements, which apart from being contrary to Maltese legislation, promote hatred, violence and lack of respect for the dignity of the human person,” said AD spokesperson on Civil Rights, Yvonne Arqueros Ebejer.

“Certain rights are universal,” ADZ said in reaction to the Imam’s views.

“While we are all out for freedom of speech, it is highly irresponsible for a religious leader to promote anti-social policies,” said Dirk Urpani, ADZ spokesperson said in a separate statement.

Though he was referring to non-European countries, certain rights are universal and the cutting off hands of thieves should be condemned by anyone living in a democratic country.

Mr El Sadi’s homophobic references “are equally disgusting” Mr Urpani said. ADZ believes he should apologise to the Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender community, especially for ridiculing same sex marriages or unions by comparing them to marrying a cat or a dog.

ADZ said that Malta hosts refugees who have fled from the oppression of fundamentalist Muslim regimes. It is very offensive, to say the least, to people who left their country because of such persecution only to find a religious leader condoning the same practices that caused their oppression.