When the Imaam does not Perform Jalsah al-Istiraahah

The great scholar of hadeeth in this era, Shaykh al-Albaanee (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: If the Imaam does not perform Jalsah al-Istiraahah (sitting of rest), it is proper for the ma'moon to follow him, because following the Imaam is one of the obligations of Salaah as stated by the Prophet: "The imam has been appointed to be followed. When he says takbeer, then say takbeer; when he bows, then bow. When he says Sami’ Allaahu liman hamidah (Allaah hears the one who praises Him), say Rabbanaa wa lakal-hamd (Our Lord, to You be praise). When he prostrates, then prostrate. If he prays standing, then pray standing, and if he prays sitting, then pray sitting, all of you.’ This hadeeth is emphasizing the necessity of following the Imaam even if he breaches some of the Sunan.

Source: Fataawaa ash-Shaykh al-Albaanee fil-Madeenah wal-Imaaraat pp. 92-93