Our Musjid is over 30 years old. For the past 27 years, this Musjid used to have Annual General Meetings and trustees were elected.

Answer

According to the Shariah, it is permissible for trustees (mutawallis) of a Musjid to hold office for life. The practice of 'democratic' elections annually is not Islamic. As long as the trustees are executing their obligations, and if they are known to be trustworthy, then their trusteeship will be valid.

Since the normal practice of this particular Musjid body was to issue financial statements annually, the departure from this practice is improper. They should continue to issue financial statements. Refraining from this method after so many years, creates suspicion. To save themselves from being suspected of embezzlement, they should continue with the old practice of issuing financial statements.

If any specific donor requires a receipt, it should be provided. However, there is no Shar'I incumbency to provide receipts. The system largely depends on the integrity of the trustees. If they are men of Taqwa, then suspicion will be obviated. But, if they are not men of Taqwa, then there is a need for transparency. They should re-introduce the system of the past 27 years.

It is improper for the trustees not to take into consideration the convenience of the musallis regarding fans and lights. What is the purpose of the fans if not switched on even on hot days? What is the reason for this attitude of the trustees? Surely they must be having a reason.