Al-Azhar Grand Imam Appoints Russian Muslim Leader to MCE

The Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, has appointed Sheikh Rawi Ainuddin, Head of the Religious Administration of Muslims of the Russian Federation, as a new member of the Muslim Council of Elders.

In a statement following the announcement, Sheikh Ainuddin expressed his profound gratitude to the Grand Imam, calling the appointment a “great honor and source of pride” for both himself and Islamic scholars across Russia. He pledged to contribute fully to the Council’s mission of promoting peace, interfaith dialogue, and unity within the Muslim world.

The Muslim Council of Elders, founded in Abu Dhabi in 2014, is an independent international organization committed to fostering reconciliation, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence among Muslims and broader societies. Led by Al-Tayeb, the Council brings together a prominent group of scholars and leaders known for their wisdom, moderation, and influence in their communities.

The appointment is seen as a step toward strengthening the Council’s global reach and reaffirming its role in addressing the challenges facing the Muslim Ummah through collective wisdom and collaboration.