The Conduct of the Imam of a Mosque under a Waqf Board

Question

(1) The usual attitude of the imam of the mosque towards the followers (muqtadis) of the mosque is one of sourness, and the followers are always displeased with him. From the standpoint of the Shari‘a, is the prayer behind this imam valid or not? (2) He gives the adhan whenever he pleases and holds the congregation whenever he pleases, which causes the followers great hardship.

Answer

Despite these shortcomings and faults of the respected imam, the prayers performed following him have been discharged; there is no need to repeat them. Since no other mosque is open there for prayer, continue, out of necessity, to pray behind the imam in question; do not abandon the congregation of the mosque.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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