RIYADH: The Ministry of Religious Affairs said that all mosque employees can be fired for five reasons: If they fail to start work within 15 days from the date of appointment or transfer; if they are absent without excuse for 15 days; if they do not meet all appointment conditions; if they do not start work because they are sick for more than 15 months; if they are imprisoned for more than six months.

The ministry said these regulations concerning imams go back to a royal decree issued on Feb. 29, 1972, which states that imams must pray on time, keep mosques clean and safeguard their contents, as well as observe the obligations imposed by Shariah and observe the code of honor dictated by their position. They must also display exemplary behavior.

Sanctions that can be imposed on mosques employees for not complying with their work requirements are: Warning; blame; not receiving a bonus for three months at most; and removal from the job.