Gqeberha, South Africa – Muhsin Hendricks, widely regarded as the world’s first openly gay imam, was shot dead in an ambush on his car in South Africa.
The 57-year-old Islamic scholar and LGBTQ+ activist, known for his efforts to create an inclusive space for queer and marginalised Muslims, was attacked on Saturday morning near the southern city of Gqeberha.
According to the Eastern Cape police, two unidentified assailants with covered faces exited a vehicle and opened fire on Hendricks’ car before fleeing the scene. The imam, who was seated in the back, was fatally shot.
Footage circulating on social media captures the broad daylight assassination, showing an attacker jumping out of a vehicle, approaching Hendricks’ car, and firing multiple shots through the back passenger window.
Authorities have stated that the motive for the murder remains unclear and have urged anyone with information to come forward.
Reports suggest Hendricks was targeted after officiating a lesbian wedding, though this detail has not been officially confirmed.
Shockwaves Across the LGBTQ+ and Faith Communities
Hendricks’ killing has sent shockwaves across South Africa and beyond, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community.
This is truly heartbreaking💔. Rest in peace, Muhsin Hendricks.
— Revd Mother Jide ‘Emeka’ Macaulay HHH ™ (@RevJide) February 15, 2025
May Allah bring justice for those responsible for your untimely passing.
I first met you in 2009 when you led a retreat and study days in Cape Town. From that moment, we forged a deep connection—one built on shared… pic.twitter.com/rfBneJrbOW
Tributes from around the world have poured in for the pioneering figure, whose work in challenging religious boundaries left a lasting impact.
The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Intersex Association (ILGA) strongly condemned the attack. Julia Ehrt, executive director, called for a thorough investigation, stating, “We fear this may be a hate crime.”
Prominent queer pastor Revd Jide Macaulay mourned Hendricks’ passing, describing it as a “profound loss”. He reflected on their first meeting in 2009, when the imam led a retreat and study days in Cape Town, recalling their shared commitment to justice and inclusion.
“As an openly queer pastor and you as a queer imam, we found joy and strength in our work, challenging the rigid boundaries of faith and sexuality,” Macaulay wrote.
He credited Hendricks with playing an instrumental role in shaping theological discussions that empowered LGBTQ+ people of faith worldwide.
A Legacy of Advocacy and Courage
Hendricks, who came out as gay in 1996, was a leading voice in LGBTQ+ Muslim advocacy. He founded the Al-Ghurbaah mosque in Wynberg, Cape Town, which served as a safe space for queer Muslims and marginalized women.
His life and activism were the subject of the 2022 documentary “The Radical”, where he acknowledged the threats against him. Despite these dangers, he remained committed to his mission, once stating, “The need to be authentic is greater than the fear to die.”
As the investigation into his tragic murder continues, Hendricks’ influence on faith, inclusion, and LGBTQ+ rights remains undeniable, ensuring that his legacy lives on.
