Kuwait’s Islamic Affairs Ministry urges imams to avoid political comments, criticism

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has warned imams and muezzins against discussing political matters, urging them to avoid any direct or indirect criticism of individuals, institutions, or nations.

In an administrative circular issued on Thursday, 13th March, the Assistant Undersecretary for the Mosques Sector, Bader Al-Otaibi, emphasized regulations for all mosques and their employees. Al-Rai obtained a copy of the circular, which was sent to mosque department directors across the governorates.

The circular stressed the need to comply with mosque opening and closing times, prohibited any structural modifications, and banned the entry of Qur’ans, books, pamphlets, and printed materials into all mosques, including those with Sunni or Jaafari endowments.

Importantly, the circular stated to maintain the smooth and orderly functioning of mosques and in line with workplace requirements, all imams and muezzins, whether in Sunni or Jaafari-endowed mosques, must strictly adhere to the following regulations:

First: Regarding the rules for mosque buildings:

1. Ensure strict compliance with the opening and closing times of mosques as outlined in Administrative Resolution 6586/2022. Mosque doors should open to worshippers 30 minutes before prayer time, except on Fridays, when they open three hours prior. They must close 30 minutes after prayer ends, with exceptions for Fajr, which remains open until 30 minutes after sunrise, and Maghrib, which stays open until 30 minutes after Isha. During Ramadan, mosques open 30 minutes before Maghrib and close immediately after Tarawih prayers. For mosques holding Qiyam prayers, doors open 10 minutes before and close immediately after the prayer.
2. Any modifications to mosque buildings or facilities are strictly prohibited unless prior official approval is obtained from the Mosques Sector.
3. Only entities contracted with the Ministry may carry out maintenance on mosque buildings or facilities unless official approval is granted by the Mosques Sector.
4. Copies of the Holy Qur’an, books, pamphlets, and printed materials may only be brought into mosques with the Ministry’s approval. Any unauthorized materials found will be promptly removed and handed over to the administration.

Second: Regarding Mosque Workers:

1. The Imam is the main authority in the mosque, responsible for overseeing its operations. In his absence, the muezzin assumes his duties, and similarly, the Imam takes over the muezzin’s responsibilities when necessary. Both must work collaboratively and comply with all official instructions and guidelines issued by the administration.
2. The Imam is responsible for ensuring that the muezzin and cleaning staff fulfill their duties. He must also oversee the cleanliness and maintenance of the mosque and its facilities, following the guidelines set by the administration.
3. Ensure strict adherence to the attendance verification process as per the mechanism approved by the Ministry.
4. Maintain a dignified appearance befitting the role and adhere to the official national attire (dishdasha and ghutra) while carrying out job responsibilities.
5. Refrain from engaging in political matters and avoid any direct or indirect criticism of individuals, institutions, or countries.
6. Comply with the regulations governing cultural activities in mosques by charitable organizations and ensure that only individuals with written authorization from the competent authority are permitted to deliver sermons, lectures, or lessons, regardless of the topic.
7. Prohibit any entity or individual from collecting donations inside mosques, except for those officially authorized by the Ministry of Social Affairs and only after proper coordination with the Ministry.
8. Ensure compliance with the approved regulations for recording the Friday sermon.
9. Promptly report any malfunctions, emergencies, or deficiencies in cleaning services.
10. Cooperate with mosque supervisors, allowing them to perform their duties without obstruction or interference.