How many times is it permissible to appoint a successor (istikhlaf) to complete the prayer, and what are the consequences of repeating the appointment of a successor?

If the Imam invalidates his ablution (حدث), it is permissible for him to appoint a successor. The successor may in turn appoint a third, and so on, while observing the original Imam's prayer order. A latecomer (masbuq) who is appointed as successor may make up the missed parts of the prayer after the first Imam has completed his prayer. The congregants have the choice between concluding their prayer individually (making taslim) or waiting for the successor to conclude the prayer with him.