World’s First Openly Gay Imam Muhsin Hendricks Shot Dead in South Africa

Muhsin Hendricks, known as the world’s first openly gay imam, was shot dead in Gqeberha, South Africa, on Saturday, February 15th. Hendricks, 57, was traveling in a car when two unknown assailants ambushed the vehicle, firing multiple shots. He was killed while seated in the back of the car, and the motive for the attack remains unclear.

The police have confirmed the authenticity of a video circulating on social media showing the targeted killing. Authorities are investigating the case but have not yet established a clear motive for the crime. In response to the violence, police urge the public to provide any information that could aid the investigation.

Hendricks, a pioneering figure in both the LGBTQ+ and Muslim communities, founded the Al-Ghurbaah Foundation and the Masjidul Ghurbaah mosque in Cape Town. The mosque was known as a safe space for LGBTQ+ Muslims, offering an inclusive environment for individuals often marginalized by both religious and societal norms.

In response to the killing, the Muslim Judicial Council (MJC) condemned the murder and called for a thorough investigation. “The sanctity of human life is a fundamental tenet of Islam, and the unlawful taking of life is a grave transgression,” the MJC said. While the MJC noted that Hendricks’ views on same-sex relationships “is incompatible with Islamic teachings,” they condemned his murder, asserting that “we unequivocally condemn his murder and any acts of violence targeting members of the LGBTQ community or any other community.”

The United Ulama Council of South Africa (UUCSA) also released a statement, urging the public to avoid speculation about the motive and to respect the investigation. “Islamic teachings and traditions unequivocally prohibit same-sex relationships, an aspect the deceased is known to have been advocating,” the UUCSA said. They condemned extrajudicial killings and emphasized the importance of upholding justice and respecting due process.

Known for his role in bridging the gap between faith and sexuality, Hendricks came out as gay in 1996, founding The Inner Circle, a support network for queer Muslims. His work, which included challenging traditional Islamic views on homosexuality, made him a target for threats, though he remained committed to his advocacy. “The need to be authentic was greater than the fear to die,” Hendricks had once said.

South Africa, despite its progressive laws protecting LGBTQ+ rights, still faces significant challenges related to violence against gay people. Hendricks’ murder has drawn attention to the continued struggle for acceptance and safety for LGBTQ+ individuals in the country.

As the investigation progresses, communities both locally and globally are demanding justice, with many expressing concern that this may be a hate crime.