Is it obligatory to strive for the Adhan to be recited via loudspeakers in a multicultural country like Mauritius, or is it permissible to accept its prohibition to avoid discord that could lead to war, especially after a court ruling to that effect?

Fatwa Summary:

Firstly: Mauritius consists of small islands in the Indian Ocean, discovered by Arabs before Europeans. Islam reached it in 923 AH. It gained independence from Britain in 1968 CE, and Muslims constitute 20% of its population.

Secondly: The Athan (call to prayer) is a collective obligation (fard kifayah). The Athan from one mosque in a neighborhood is sufficient if everyone hears it, though it is preferable for all mosques to make the Athan.

Thirdly: The wisdom behind the Athan is manifold: it displays a symbol of Islam, announces the time and place of prayer, and invites to congregational prayer.

Therefore, the following is recommended to attempt to overturn the court ruling while avoiding conflict: 1. Continue the Athan inside the mosque and avoid using loudspeakers. 2. Explain the ruling on the Athan to Muslims, clarifying that they are permitted to refrain from vocalizing it loudly, and that the prohibition is on the manifestation of the sound, not its establishment. 3. File a counter-lawsuit to overturn the unjust ruling. 4. If the lawsuit is unsuccessful, demand that the Athan be made at times that do not cause disturbance. 5. If attempts are unsuccessful, do not despair, for you are compelled to refrain from vocalizing the Athan loudly and will not incur sin.

We ask Allah to grant you success.