RAFHAH, 17 March 2004 — About 900 imams and khateebs (those who lead prayers and give Friday sermons) have been suspended for negligence, said Dr. Saleh Al-Sadlan, professor of law at Riyadh’s Imam Muhammad ibn Saud University and head of the advisory committee in the Ministry of Islamic Affairs.
“The reason for the suspension is that various flaws and shortcomings were noted, mainly to do with failure to do what is required of imams and khateebs,” Dr. Al-Sadlan explained. He added that seminars would be held to advise those who are detected making frequent mistakes.
Dr. Al-Sadlan was speaking to a group of imams, khateebs and muezzins at a meeting last Thursday in Rafhah district.
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has established a committee to advise imams and muezzins.
“The committee will have branches in every region and teams have also been established,” said Dr. Al-Sadlan.
