Salah-Haji Mejiev

Salah-Haji Mejiev is the Mufti of Chechnya and the head of the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Chechnya, a position he has held since his election in 2014. He was re-elected for a second term in 2019. Mejiev is known for his influential role in promoting Islam within Chechen society and has received recognition for his efforts in preserving the spiritual fabric of the community, including a commendation from Russian President Vladimir Putin in September 2023. Recently, he was in the news following criticism from Russia's Chief Rabbi Berel Lazar regarding Mejiev's remarks about 'enemies of Allah,' which were misunderstood and deemed offensive. Mejiev clarified that his comments were misrepresented and emphasized his respectful stance towards all nations and religions.