IslamQA
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Question
If something happens to the imam (he breaks his wudoo’), is it permissible for one of the members of the congregation to take over and lead the others in prayer?
Answer
Praise be to Allah, and blessings and peace be upon the Messenger of Allah:
If the imam loses his wudoo’ and stops praying, he can say to one of the members of the congregation, “O so and so, come forward and finish leading them in prayer.” If he does not do this, then the worshippers can appoint one of their number to finish leading the prayer, or they can complete the prayer individually.
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