Paying the Zakah to the committee that the Muslim ruler entrusted with collecting it

Q: I am a farmer and I have good harvest that fluctuates between sixty to one hundred sacks of corn. Each bag equals 20 Sa` (1 Sa`=3 kg. Approx.). I am accustomed to the payment of Zakah (obligatory charity) due on the crops at the time of their harvest. However, suddenly a committee came and urged me to pay the Zakah due for the past five years, so I paid the Zakah again willingly. However, I wish to pay the Zakah upon the harvest of the crops lest I should die while the Zakah is still due. Grains are liable to decay after six months from the harvest, especially when exposed to rain. It should be noted that the authoritative committee entrusted with preparing inventories of the Zakah come so late after the due time and it may happen that they come to us after five years from the harvest. Please, give us your fatwa on this matter. May Allah reward you with the best. (Part No. 8; Page No. 341

A: It is obligatory upon you to pay the Zakah to the committee that the Muslim ruler entrusted with its collection. However, when the committee delays the reception of the Zakah and you fear lest the grains may decay or defected, you should contact the judge in your locality and he should decide on the best course of action, In sha’a-Allah (if Allah wills).May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.