Performing Eid prayer while fasting
Question
The moon of Eid was not sighted, nor was there valid Shariah confirmation from elsewhere. However, the residents of the town accepted the announcement from the radio. The imam of the Eid prayer ground did not accept the radio announcement, so he observed the fast in the morning. While fasting, he led the Eid prayer. Until 11 a.m., no confirmation of moon sighting arrived. After the prayer, after midday (zawāl), news arrived that the moon had indeed been sighted.
Answer
Since the moon sighting was not confirmed according to the imam, it was obligatory for him to keep the fast. However, leading the Eid prayer in such a condition was incorrect. Apparently, the local people compelled him to lead the prayer, and that was their mistake. Otherwise, if the imam was fasting, why would he himself lead the Eid prayer?
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