JEDDAH: A number of preachers have been arrested for using sermons to promote political ideologies, said Fahad Sulaiman Al-Khalifa of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs.

He said the issue was not widespread, and the ministry reiterated that the sermon should not be used as a means to instil and incite ideological and sectarian strife. He said two actions are taken against violators, including summoning the imam before a committee of judges and other officials to investigate.

If the justification is confirmed and the imam admits to wrongdoing, a pledge is taken before he is permitted to return to his work. If not, the preacher is stripped of his right to deliver sermons.

“It is not in the best interest of the nation, nor is it acceptable, for imams and preachers to diverge away from the requested and accepted platform or curriculum to one that is politically oriented,” said Al-Khalifa.

As for lengthy Friday sermons, he said the ministry “always reiterates to preachers what was done by the Prophet, peace be upon him, and that years ago, sermons did not exceed 5 or 10 minutes and included coherent and concize messages.”

“Unfortunately, some imams try to show off their linguistic skills, their culture or political knowledge, and this is not the religious point of the sermon,” he added. “Rather, the point is that people should tune into the sermon and come out with greater religious awareness.”

As for the absence on the part of some preachers, he said there was a system and sanctions in place in addition to a group of observers tasked with making sure the imam is committed and disciplined. He confirmed that the system would be applied strictly and penalties against violators, including dismissal, would be applied.

Al-Khalifa also pointed to a program aimed at training female advocates and preachers who will be able to take on the task at schools, universities, and places that, subject to approval, allow women to promote awareness among other women.