What is the ruling on praying behind an Imam who believes that saints have the˹power of˺ disposal to harm and benefit, and is it permissible to seek forgiveness for them after their death?

The statement that saints (Awliya) bring benefit and ward off harm is an act of disbelief (kufr) and polytheism (shirk (definition)) in Allah, because the Giver of benefit and the Inflictor of harm is Allah alone. Saints, being deceased, possess no power to benefit or harm, as they have lost the ability to act. This is a major shirk (polytheism), and one should not pray behind someone who commits it, nor perform the funeral prayer for their deceased.

Scholars must clarify this grave matter to the people. It is incumbent upon every individual to worship Allah alone and dedicate all worship solely to Him. No one should supplicate to other than Allah, seek aid from other than Him, or ask for مدد (help/succor) from other than Him, not even from prophets or saints. We do not worship them; rather, we love them for the sake of Allah and follow them. Circumambulating graves to seek help or healing is shirk in Allah. Among the means leading to shirk are building over graves and establishing mosques and domes upon them. The Prophet (peace be upon him) cursed the Jews and Christians for taking the graves of their prophets as places of worship.