Any Imam and Muezzin receiving unauthorized cash or other donations from the public for Ramadan Iftar meals will be punished for doing so. This is according to an authorized source at the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Endowment, Islamic Call and Guidance. The source said undercover staff at the ministry's branches in various parts of the region will be monitoring all cash donations for Ramadan Iftar meals. The source stressed that the ministry will not tolerate such malpractices. He made it clear that Imams and Muezzins will be questioned by the authorities at the ministry's branches and punished if found to have broken the rules. The ministry has urged those who want to donate in cash and kind to approach licensed charitable societies. The ministry also called on those who are interested in carrying out a program for breaking fast in Ramadan to obtain permission from the Emir's Office where he or she lives. Earlier, the Ministry of Interior banned any boxes for collection of cash at malls, mosques, pharmacies, hospitals and health centers. The ministry has confined the collection of donations to officially licensed charitable societies or through their bank accounts. Abdullah Al-Lehaidan, Director of the ministry's branch in the Eastern Province, said the ministry has approved the employment of assistant Imams to lead the prayers during Ramadan to overcome any shortages. He said the ministry resorted to this measure after it noticed that some Imams were exhausted in Ramadan. The measure is also meant to replace absent Imams. He said the ministry is closely watching the performance of officially appointed Imams and Muezzins during Ramadan and will punish any negligence.
