Are they required to consult with me first.
Shariah has emphasized in honouring and respecting the right of an
appointed Imam leading his congregation. We make reference to – among
others – the following:
Abu Masood (Radhiallahu anhu) states that no person should become the Imam
of a person in his place of leadership and no person should sit in the house
of a person at his special place but with his permission. (Mishkaat pg.100;
Me?raaj)
Whosoever enters the Masjid and he is more educated than the resident Imam
then too the resident Imam is entitled to lead the salaat. (Fatawa Hindiyya
vol.1 Pg.2; Rashidiyya)
It is Makrooh-e-Tahrimi for another person to perform salaat without the
consent of the official Imam. (AAP.KE. Masaail or US KA HAL Vol. 2 Page 234)
In view of the above it is clear that as the appointed Imam of the Masjid it
is your right to lead the congregation. However, you are at liberty to give
permission to a suitable person to lead the salaat.
And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best.
Mufti Ebrahim Desai