Is congregational prayer valid if a minor leads the obligatory (Fard) prayer?
Chapter on Imamate and Congregational Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
Ahmad holds that congregational prayer is not established when a minor leads the obligatory prayer because he is unfit to be an Imam due to the deficiency of his status, resembling someone whose prayer is invalid.
Supporting text
Abu al-Hasan al-Amidi presents another narration suggesting that it is valid for a minor to be an Imam because he is performing a voluntary act, thus making it permissible for him to lead those performing obligatory prayers, similar to an adult. This is supported by the Prophet's statement to the man who missed the congregation: "Who will give charity to this man, and pray with him?"