Muhsin Hendricks, recognized as one of the world’s first openly gay imams, was shot dead in Gqeberha, South Africa. His work advocating for LGBTQ+ Muslims and fostering faith acceptance was significant. Authorities are investigating the crime, with discussions ongoing about its possible connections to hate.
South African Gay Rights Advocate and Imam Muhsin Hendricks Murdered
South African Gay Rights Advocate and Imam Muhsin Hendricks Murdered
The killing of openly gay imam Muhsin Hendricks sparks outrage and concern for LGBTQ+ rights in South Africa and beyond.
The murder of Muhsin Hendricks, a South African imam and renowned advocate for gay rights within the Muslim community, has sent shockwaves through both local and international circles. On Saturday, February 17, 2025, Hendricks was shot in Gqeberha, triggering immediate outrage and concern for LGBTQ+ safety amid widespread calls for justice.
Hendricks, who became known as one of the world’s first openly gay imams, founded the Al-Ghurbaah Foundation in 2018. This nonprofit organization aimed to offer support to LGBTQ+ Muslims facing discrimination, helping them bridge their sexual identity with their faith. His commitment to tolerance and justice won him many supporters, as well as detractors. The South African Human Rights Commission condemned his killing, noting the presence of a mysterious hooded figure on social media who allegedly shot into a vehicle before fleeing.
While the police are pursuing leads in the case, Deputy Justice Minister Andries Nel commented that it is premature to label the incident definitively as a hate crime. However, he expressed hope that the investigation would proceed swiftly, emphasizing the importance of constitutional protections that uphold tolerance and human rights in South Africa.
Hendricks faced substantial criticism for his views within conservative sectors, but his impact on the country's LGBTQ+ community cannot be overstated. South Africa has made history as the first African nation to decriminalize homosexuality, with its constitution being praised for its robust protections of human rights. In a survey conducted by Afrobarometer in 2021, South Africa was rated as the second-most tolerant country in Africa regarding same-sex relationships.
The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA) expressed profound shock over Hendricks’ assassination. They emphasized his role in mentoring individuals globally to reconcile their religious beliefs with their sexual orientation, advocating for unity amid diversity.
As the discussion continues regarding the implications of Hendricks’ death, many are forced to reconsider the landscape of LGBTQ+ rights in South Africa. While the nation enjoys legal protections, nearby countries like Ghana and Uganda have recently enacted or proposed repressive laws against the LGBTQ+ community, making South Africa an outlier in an increasingly hostile region.
Hendricks, who became known as one of the world’s first openly gay imams, founded the Al-Ghurbaah Foundation in 2018. This nonprofit organization aimed to offer support to LGBTQ+ Muslims facing discrimination, helping them bridge their sexual identity with their faith. His commitment to tolerance and justice won him many supporters, as well as detractors. The South African Human Rights Commission condemned his killing, noting the presence of a mysterious hooded figure on social media who allegedly shot into a vehicle before fleeing.
While the police are pursuing leads in the case, Deputy Justice Minister Andries Nel commented that it is premature to label the incident definitively as a hate crime. However, he expressed hope that the investigation would proceed swiftly, emphasizing the importance of constitutional protections that uphold tolerance and human rights in South Africa.
Hendricks faced substantial criticism for his views within conservative sectors, but his impact on the country's LGBTQ+ community cannot be overstated. South Africa has made history as the first African nation to decriminalize homosexuality, with its constitution being praised for its robust protections of human rights. In a survey conducted by Afrobarometer in 2021, South Africa was rated as the second-most tolerant country in Africa regarding same-sex relationships.
The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA) expressed profound shock over Hendricks’ assassination. They emphasized his role in mentoring individuals globally to reconcile their religious beliefs with their sexual orientation, advocating for unity amid diversity.
As the discussion continues regarding the implications of Hendricks’ death, many are forced to reconsider the landscape of LGBTQ+ rights in South Africa. While the nation enjoys legal protections, nearby countries like Ghana and Uganda have recently enacted or proposed repressive laws against the LGBTQ+ community, making South Africa an outlier in an increasingly hostile region.
