Worlds First Open Gay Imam, Muhsin Hendricks Murdered in South Africa

Muhsin Hendricks, known as the world’s “first openly gay imam,” was tragically shot dead in South Africa. The incident occurred near Gqeberha, formerly known as Port Elizabeth when Hendricks was traveling in a car with another person on Saturday. According to the Eastern Cape police, their vehicle was blocked by another car, and two masked individuals emerged, opening fire. Hendricks, who was seated in the back, was killed during this assault.

Police Statement

The South African police confirmed the authenticity of a video circulating on social media that depicted the attack in Bethelsdorp. The Eastern Cape police force stated, “Two unknown suspects with covered faces got out of the vehicle and started firing multiple shots at the vehicle.” After the shooting, the suspects fled, leaving Hendricks dead in the car. The motive behind the murder remains under investigation, with police urging anyone with information to come forward.

Reaction from Advocacy Groups

The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA World) expressed profound shock over Hendricks’ murder. Julia Ehrt, the executive director, stated, “The ILGA World family is in deep shock at the news of the murder of Muhsin Hendricks, and calls on authorities to thoroughly investigate what we fear may be a hate crime.”

Life and Legacy of Muhsin Hendricks

Muhsin Hendricks came out as gay in 1996 and began hosting meetings for the LGBTQ+ Muslim community in his home city two years later. His initiative started in his garage, where he provided a space for community members to gather, have tea, and discuss their experiences. In 2011, he established the Al-Ghurbaah mosque in Wynberg, near Cape Town, to offer a safe haven where queer Muslims and marginalized women could practice Islam without judgment, following an incident where a friend was publicly condemned during a sermon.

Hendricks, who was also an Arabic language teacher and fashion designer, had faced threats due to his advocacy. Despite being advised to hire bodyguards, he continued his work, emphasizing the importance of authenticity over fear. His life was documented in the 2022 documentary “The Radical.”

Personal Background

Born into a Muslim family, Hendricks married a woman, had children, and later divorced before revealing his sexuality to his family, eight years after his father’s death. He was 29 when he came out to his mother, marking a significant turning point in his personal and public life.

Context of Violence in South Africa

South Africa is known for having one of the highest murder rates globally, with 28,000 murders reported in the year leading up to February 2024. This backdrop adds a layer of complexity to the investigation into Hendricks’ murder, which authorities are treating with urgency due to its potential as a hate crime.

The murder of Muhsin Hendricks not only represents a personal tragedy but also underscores the ongoing struggles of the LGBTQ+ community in South Africa and globally. As investigations continue, the international community watches closely, hoping for justice and a deeper understanding of the motives behind this violent act.

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