The tragic and brutal killing of Muhsin Hendricks, 57, near Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) on February 15, 2025, has sent shockwaves through communities worldwide.
Hendricks, widely known as the world’s first openly gay Muslim imam, was shot and killed in what is believed to be a targeted attack.
The news of his death has sparked a flood of tributes and expressions of grief on social media.
The Attack and Hendricks’ Legacy
On the morning of the attack, Hendricks was seated in the back of a vehicle when another car blocked their path.
Two masked individuals emerged from the car and began shooting at them.
After the attackers fled, the driver discovered that Hendricks had been fatally shot.
Hendricks, a trailblazer in many ways, had publicly identified as a gay imam and had been running a mosque that served as a safe space for LGBTQ+ Muslims and other marginalized individuals.
He made history when he came out as gay in 1996 and later established the Al-Ghurbaah mosque in Wynberg, Cape Town.
Hendricks was also featured in the 2022 documentary The Radical, where he openly discussed threats he had received.
In the documentary, he courageously stated that living authentically was more important than fearing death.
Heartfelt Tributes from Friends and Supporters
Following his death, many people, including public figures, took to social media to express their sadness and honor Hendricks’ legacy.
South African comedian Marc Lottering shared his sorrow on Facebook, calling the killing an act of brutality.
Anwar McKay, Lottering’s husband, also expressed his heartbreak, saying, “Human rights activist and brave, kind soul.
You did not deserve this brutality, this barbarism.
May your beautiful soul rest in peace. There is so much hatred in this world today.”
Social media users have joined in, with one commenter stating, “Irrespective of others’ beliefs, who gives one the right to take someone’s life? This world has lost its humanity.”
Another wrote, “This is not only sad, it’s disturbing, disgusting, and inhuman!!! Where is humanity?”
Possible Hate Crime and the Call for Justice
Many believe that Hendricks’ murder could be linked to homophobia, with several people calling it a hate crime.
Activist Suntosh Pillay expressed his condolences and described the loss as “heartbreaking,” referring to the killing as likely motivated by homophobia.
Pillay also remembered Hendricks for his role in running South Africa’s first support group for LGBTQ+ Muslims, known as the Inner Circle.
Revd Mother Jide ‘Emeka’ Macaulay also posted a tribute, recalling the connection he had with Hendricks when they first met in 2009. “Rest in peace, Muhsin Hendricks.
May Allah bring justice for those responsible for your untimely passing,” Macaulay said.
A Grieving Community and a Call for Justice
As tributes pour in, the public continues to call for justice for Hendricks.
The police have yet to capture the perpetrators, and many are wondering whether they will be brought to justice soon.