Are the worshippers considered to be covering for the Imam who is permanently assigned to the mosque, and who delegates someone to lead the prayers on his behalf for money, and is absent from the mosque for long periods, if they do not inform the Awqaf (Endowments Ministry) or prevent others from informing, despite repeatedly advising him?

If an Imam who receives a salary for his imamate neglects his duty by appointing someone to lead the prayers without necessity and without the permission of the responsible authority, then the congregants must report him to the responsible authority. This is because their silence regarding the report or their prevention of anyone who wishes to report may be considered an aid to sin and transgression.

The Imam has committed two forbidden acts: neglecting his duty and abandoning congregational prayer in the mosque despite being able to perform it.