Is it permissible for a person who prolongs the recitation in the Maghrib and Fajr prayers until the next prayer time begins to lead the people in prayer?

Question:
A questioner says: What is the ruling in the Shari'ah regarding one of the imams who prolongs the recitation in his obligatory prayers, specifically the Maghrib prayer, to the extent that he does not finish the prayer until after the time for 'Isha' has entered? Consequently, he does not pray the Sunnah of Maghrib until after the time for 'Isha' has entered. He does this every night. He also prolongs the recitation in the Fajr prayer to the extent that he finishes the prayer after the sun has risen. He does this every night. What is the ruling?

Answer:
This person is not fit to be an imam; he is a fitan (one who causes fitnah). The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) rebuked Mu'adh ibn Jabal (may Allah be pleased with him) when he prolonged the prayer for his companions and they complained about it. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: If he is praying alone, he may prolong it as much as he wishes, but he should not prolong it to the extent that the time exits. This is an exaggeration, and I seek refuge in Allah from it. He should prolong it within the time, and he should not leave the rawatib (regular voluntary prayers) either. This is ignorance.