studied plans and organized joint efforts are necessary to tackle the increasing disasters, Sheikh Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, Imam and Khateeb of the Grand Mosque, has said. These joint efforts, he said during his Friday sermon in the Holy Haram, should come from individuals, institutions, administrations and charitable societies. He said there should be strict and firm decisions that would stop foot-dragging, negligence, haphazard work and offhand decisions. Al-Sudais hoped that citizens would be satisfied with the establishment of a Higher Commission for Crisis and Disaster Management and another for countering corruption and breach of trust. Praising King Abdullah, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, for launching a war on corrupt officials, Al-Sudais hoped that corruption in all financial, administrative and social fields will be rooted out and negligent officials are taken to task. He said this approach to root out corruption and favoritism is the key to change that would encourage creativity, meet the ambitions, protect for the Ummah its cohesion, compassion and strengthen self-introspection and the sense of responsibility in the government and private sectors. Al-Sudais said King Abdullah has shown his compassion and care for the flood victims by his directives to provide succor and relief to the grief-stricken populace. The Imam also lauded charitable societies, other bodies and volunteers for the help they extended to the flood victims. He said this shows the cohesion, compassion and nobility of the society in general. Corruption, Al-Sudais said, brings evil and wrath, deprives the nation of blessings and bounties, causes lack of security and law and order and tampers with the gains of development. The Imam said cheating, tardiness, favoritism, forgery, bribery and sluggishness or foot-dragging have now become accepted norms in our society. He said Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) has forbidden breaching of the trust and stealing. He condemned those who sell their religion and nation for material gains. He said their destiny is defeat and disgrace. Al-Sudais said a Muslim must observe introspection, be conscious of Allah Almighty and be prepared for death.
