An Imam does not perform the Fajr Prayer and does not want anyone to perform it in the Masjid

Q 4: The Imam (the one who leads congregational Prayer) of our Masjid (mosque) does not perform the Fajr (Dawn) Prayer and he does not want anyone to perform it in the Masjid, because he lives in front of it. The matter has reached the extent that he even disturbs those few believers who do perform Salah (Prayer) in this Masjid without being embarrassed doing so. Sometimes, they now do not call the Adhan (Call for Prayer). In relation to the Salah, this Imam tells us to, "Pray as you have seen me (the Imam) praying." He places his hands by his sides, but some people place their right hand on the left and place them both on the chest. He does not raise his hands after rising from Ruku‘ (bowing), but some people do. He raises his hands to make Du‘a’ (supplication) after each of the Five Obligatory Daily Prayers, but some people do not do so. He tells them that they should perform the Salah as he does. I am sorry to have to say this, but we are suffering and the people of the village are ignorant. The Imam’s brother teaches the Qur’an in the same village, where they have been living for around 17 years. Both of them have memorized the Qur’an, but the problem is that during all this time, he does not act in accordance with it or understand it. An example of this is that when someone passes away, they recite the Qur’an and eat and drink coffee for 3 days and on the 40th day after their death. (Part No. 6; Page No. 194

A: It is Wajib (obligatory) upon men to perform the obligatory Salahs in congregation in the Masjid at their due time. It is also obligatory for the Imam to always be punctual and arrive on time to lead the people in Salah, as he is a guardian of the believers and is responsible for those under his guardianship. The Imam, and those led by him in Salah, should strictly abide by the Sunnah as to the way of performing Salah, because the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Pray as you have seen me praying.” Therefore, Salah should be performed according to the Hadith Sahih (Hadith that have been transmitted by people known for their uprightness and exactitude; free from eccentricity and blemish) that relate the manner in which the Prophet (peace be upon him) prayed.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.