Does paying Zakat to an unjust ruler discharge the obligation?
Chapter on Zakat on Sheep
Al-Mughni
Book of Zakat
Primary text
Payment of Zakat to the Imam discharges the obligation both outwardly and inwardly, regardless of whether the Imam is just or unjust, and whether the wealth is apparent or hidden. The payer is absolved even if the Zakat is lost or spent on improper expenditures while in the Imam's possession. This is based on reports concerning the Companions. The payer is considered absolved because the Imam acts as a legal deputy (Na'ib) for the recipients.
Supporting text
The argument that payment to the Imam discharges the obligation inwardly is countered by noting that payment to an unjust Imam still results in discharge, even though it is not considered superior. Furthermore, outward absolution is sufficient, and removing suspicion is achieved by making the payment apparent, whether done personally or via the Imam.