The preferred option for the regular imam who is excused: sitting or appointing a substitute

The questioner:
Honorable Shaykh, may Allah grant you success. Several questions are being asked: Is it preferable for the regular imam, if he is afflicted with a temporary excuse, to lead the people in prayer while sitting, with them sitting behind him?

The Shaykh:
Repeat.

The questioner:
He asks: Is it preferable for the regular imam, if he is afflicted with a temporary excuse, to lead the people in prayer while sitting, with them sitting behind him, or is it preferable for him to appoint someone else to lead them in prayer?

The Shaykh:
What is required of him is that he appoint someone else. It is not required of him. The Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) prayed with his Companions while sitting, and he did not appoint Abu Bakr or anyone else to lead them in prayer, except when the prayer became too heavy for him, peace and blessings be upon him. Yes.