South Africa Investigates Fatal Shooting of Openly Gay Imam Muhsin Hendricks
Trailblazing Imam and LGBTI+ Advocate Gunned Down in Suspected Hate Crime, Sparking Outcry and Calls for Justice
South African authorities are investigating the tragic killing of Muhsin Hendricks, widely recognized as the world’s first openly gay imam. Hendricks was fatally shot on Saturday in Gqeberha, a city in the southern part of the country. LGBTI+ organizations have raised concerns that the attack may have been a hate crime, though police have not yet confirmed the motive.
Hendricks, 58, was a prominent figure in the LGBTI+ and Muslim communities. He founded The Inner Circle, a support group for LGBTI+ Muslims in Cape Town who faced rejection due to their sexual orientation. He also established the inclusive Masjidul Ghurbaah mosque in Wynberg, near Cape Town, which served as a safe space for queer Muslims and marginalized women to practice their faith.
The incident occurred when Hendricks’ vehicle was ambushed near Gqeberha. A widely circulated video, confirmed by police, shows his car attempting to escape as another vehicle blocked its path. Two masked individuals exited the blocking vehicle and fired multiple shots, killing Hendricks, who was seated in the back. The suspects fled the scene, and the driver survived unharmed.
Police have not yet determined the motive for the murder, but Deputy Justice Minister Andries Nel stated that authorities are actively pursuing the suspects. The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) is also involved in the investigation. Unverified online reports suggest Hendricks may have been targeted after officiating a lesbian wedding, though this remains unconfirmed.
The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Intersex Association (ILGA) expressed deep shock over Hendricks’ death. In a statement, ILGA World Executive Director Julia Ehrt urged authorities to thoroughly investigate what they fear may be a hate crime.
Hendricks, who came out as gay in 1996, dedicated his life to supporting queer Muslims and advocating for the reconciliation of faith and sexuality. Despite facing threats, he remained committed to his work, famously stating that the need to live authentically was “greater than the fear to die.”
The Muslim Judicial Council condemned the murder and all violence against the LGBTI+ community, though it reiterated its disagreement with Hendricks’ views. S
Hendricks’ legacy as a trailblazer for LGBTI+ rights within the Muslim community continues to inspire many, even as his tragic death highlights the ongoing dangers faced by marginalized groups.
(With AFP)
