Following an imam by one who knows of his sin

Question

We seek refuge in Allah — Zayd is a fornicator, and no one knows of it except 'Umar. Zayd is an imam. 'Umar wants his vice not to become known, and if 'Umar does not follow him after this deed of his, his vice will become known. On this basis he follows him. Is this intention of his right or not? If it is right, will he deserve evil or good on the Day of Resurrection?

Answer

He should counsel him gently and with compassion. Moreover, the office of imam is an exalted office, and this too must be taken into account: if it becomes known, the muqtadis (followers) too will come to feel aversion. As for the punishment of Allah Most High, that is a separate matter. If the imam repents, that is sufficient.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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