JEDDAH: The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has noticed irregularities in Friday sermons related to events in the region, said Dr. Tawfeeq Al-Sudairi, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Islamic Call, Dawah and Endowment for Mosque Affairs. He said the ministry had dealt with each of these cases separately according to the rules, to overcome such shortcomings in the performance of the Khateebs. About the ministry's role in countering sedition and handling crises, he said: “In line with its responsibilities the ministry follows up all events and adopts suitable methods to enlighten society through the Khateebs (preachers) about anything that violates the Shariah, especially disobedience to the rulers in matters decreed by Almighty Allah or anything that causes division and sedition.” He said the preachers have enough knowledge to deal with all situations. He stressed that most of them are keen to adhere to genuine Islamic teachings and the country's principles. The ministry has methods to correct those who are not on the right path, he added. Al-Sudairi rejected the idea of dealing directly with the preachers. “The ministry does not favor the idea of correcting them directly.” He said the ministry will address them on how to unify society.
