Tragedy in South Africa: World’s First Openly Gay Imam Fatally Shot at Same-Sex Wedding

 

The world has lost a trailblazing religious leader as Imam Moegsien Hendricks, known as the first openly gay imam, was tragically shot and killed in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The incident occurred on Saturday, February 15, 2025, near Gqeberha, where Hendricks had traveled to officiate a same-sex wedding.

Reports indicate that Hendricks was in Bethelsdorp to marry a lesbian couple, an event that had been rejected by local religious leaders. According to a social media post by Rif’at Brower, the community and local imams had refused to conduct the marriage ceremony.

“Naadirah Abader’s daughter was getting married to another female non-Muslim. Sheikh Mukhtar of Port Elizabeth (PE) stated that they would not conduct the wedding and that no one in PE would,” Brower wrote.

Consequently, the couple sought out Imam Hendricks, a well-known advocate for LGBTQ+ Muslims, to officiate the union. Tragically, the wedding was marred by violence, leading to the imam’s untimely death.

According to police spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg, the circumstances surrounding the murder are still under investigation.

“It is alleged that at approximately 10:00 AM, the deceased, 58-year-old Imam Moegsien Hendricks, was seated in a gold-colored VW T-Roc in Haley Place, Extension 24, Bethelsdorp. A silver-colored Hilux double cab stopped in front of them, blocking their vehicle from driving off,” Rensburg stated.

“Two unknown suspects with covered faces exited the vehicle and began firing multiple shots at the car. The driver noticed that Hendricks, who was seated at the back, had been shot and killed.”

Authorities have yet to establish a motive for the killing, and investigations are ongoing.

The police are urging anyone with information to come forward.

“Anyone with relevant details can contact Detective Colonel Dawie Schotz at 082 319 8673 or SAPS Crime Stop at 08600 10111. Reports can also be made at the nearest police station. All information will be kept confidential, and callers may remain anonymous,” Rensburg added.

Imam Moegsien Hendricks gained international recognition in 1996 when he became the first openly gay Muslim cleric. Through his Al-Ghurbaah (The Strangers) Foundation, based in Wynberg, Cape Town, he provided support to LGBTQI+ Muslims, helping them reconcile their faith and identity.

Despite facing opposition from conservative religious circles, Hendricks remained steadfast in his advocacy for inclusivity within Islam. His work was instrumental in fostering acceptance for queer Muslims worldwide.

Just weeks before his death, on January 17, Hendricks posted a video of himself singing in Arabic, with lyrics translating to: “You won’t be able to forget me.”