(DEARBORN, MI) — Imam Hassan Al-Qazwini resigned from his duties as spiritual leader of the Islamic Center of America (ICA) on Ford Road in Dearborn, Mich. on Friday.
In a speech to the Young Muslim Association, Al-Qazwini called ICA board members “racist” and “selfish,” and called on the packed congregation to urge them to step down.
“For 18 years, I kept my mouth shut,” he said. “I’m not going to take it anymore.”
Al-Qazwini has been the target of anonymous letters that accused him of corruption and adultery, including diverting mosque money for his father’s projects in Iraq.
He has strongly denied all allegations, except admitting that he sent some money to his father’s charitable orphanage in Iraq.
Al-Qazwini, who was born in Iraq, says he was also the victim of racism by Lebanese board members, who wanted to fund projects in Lebanon, according to the Detroit Free Press.
Ron Amen, the chairman of the board, confirmed Qazwini’s resignation.
“The news came as a total shock to the board,” Amen told the Arab American News. “I think it’s a huge mistake. There have been derogatory comments about the Sayed, but I don’t believe resigning is the way to handle the adversary.”
Lebanese-American radio host Afaf Ahmad says she’s being attacked for publishing controversial YouTube videos about ICA issues.
“It’s very said,” she said. “This is how the Arab community reacts to a female journalist is doing her job and telling the truth. Thanks to those who believe in my mission since only brainwashed people are attacking me mostly from fake accounts.”
On Twitter, supporters are defending Al-Qazwini with the hashtags #SupportQazwini and #WeSupportQazwini.
“The community I know is better then this,” wrote Danielle Mallad. “Should we not come together instead of dividing apart? Stop the hatred!”
Another Twitter user wrote: “I admire and respect you for your 18 years of loyal service to our community, you will be greatly missed.”
WATCH Imam Hassan Al-Qazwini speak to the Young Muslim Association: