Rendering accounts when accused of embezzlement

Question

The ordinary supporters of a religious institution and other Muslims came to suspect its president and secretary of embezzlement. People demanded a report of income and expenditure. The president is evading giving an account and says: “The formation of the institution is the result of my personal efforts; no one can call me to account,” — as a result of which people became certain of the embezzlement. Is it sinful to break off relations with such an institution?

Answer

The said claim of the president and secretary is not correct: they are merely agents (wakil), not owners. They should not avoid giving an account, especially when they are suspected of embezzlement. It is incumbent upon them to show the accounts to those responsible, the members and others, and so satisfy them, and to clear their position by removing suspicions and accusations.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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