Muhsin Hendricks, First Openly Gay Imam, Shot Dead in South Africa

Muhsin Hendricks, recognized as the world's first openly gay imam, was shot dead on February 15, 2025, in Gqeberha, South Africa while allegedly officiating a wedding for a lesbian couple. The attack occurred when his vehicle was ambushed by two armed suspects who blocked their path and opened fire. Local police have confirmed the incident and are investigating the motive, which many fear may be a hate crime, given Hendricks' prominent LGBTQ+ advocacy and his history of facing threats for his beliefs. The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA) has called for a thorough investigation into the murder, expressing shock at the news. Hendricks was a significant figure in the LGBTQ+ community, running an inclusive mosque and supporting marginalized Muslims in reconciling their faith with their sexual identity. His death has sparked outrage among both LGBTQ+ and Muslim communities, with calls for justice and increased protection for vulnerable individuals.