Muhsin Hendricks, the world’s first openly gay imam, was killed in a targeted attack in Cape Town on Saturday. The 57-year-old Islamic leader ran the Masjidul Ghurbaah mosque, which aimed to provide a safe space for LGBTQ+ and marginalized Muslims. He was shot dead while traveling in his car.
Hendricks faced increasing threats as he officiated a lesbian wedding, according to police. His murder has sent shockwaves through the international LGBT community, with organizations such as ILGA World calling for authorities to investigate the incident as a potential hate crime.
Muslim groups in South Africa also condemned Hendricks’ killing, stating that it was motivated by hatred towards his views on same-sex relationships. The Muslim Judicial Council of South Africa urged calm and called for respect for Hendricks’ right to express himself freely.
Hendricks had founded several organizations to support queer Muslims, including the Al-Ghurbaah Foundation, which runs a mosque in Cape Town and provides support services for LGBTQ+ individuals struggling with their faith. His murder has raised concerns about the safety of marginalized groups within the Muslim community.
Source: https://www.jpost.com/international/article-842594