Whom the dislike for elevation applies to when followers are at different levels
Chapter on Imamate and Congregational Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
If the Imam has followers at his own level or higher, and others below him, the dislike (*karaha*) is restricted only to those who are below him, as the effective reason exists only for them. The prohibition might extend to the Imam himself for standing above their station.
Supporting text
Under the possibility that the prohibition extends to the Imam, the prayer of all becomes invalid for those who invalidate prayer due to committing a prohibited act.