World’s First Openly Gay Imam Moegsien Hendricks Shot Dead in South Africa

Moegsien Hendricks, widely recognized as the world’s first openly gay imam, was shot dead in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The fatal attack occurred near Gqeberha, where he had reportedly traveled to officiate a wedding between a lesbian couple in Bethelsdorp on Saturday, February 15, 2025.

According to reports, local imams had refused to perform the wedding ceremony, prompting the couple to invite Hendricks from Cape Town. A Facebook post by Rif’at Brower suggested strong opposition within the community, describing the cleric’s presence as unwelcome.

Police spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg confirmed the incident, stating that authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the killing.

“The police are seeking information to solve a murder case reported at SAPS Bethelsdorp following a shooting incident in Extension 24, Bethelsdorp, early on Saturday, 15 February 2025,” Rensburg said.

According to preliminary investigations, Hendricks, 58, was inside a gold-colored VW T-Roc along with a driver when a silver Hilux double cab blocked their vehicle. Two masked suspects emerged and opened fire before fleeing the scene. Hendricks, who was seated at the back of the car, was fatally shot. The driver survived.

Authorities have not yet determined a motive for the attack, and investigations remain ongoing. The police are urging anyone with information to assist in identifying the perpetrators. Detective Colonel Dawie Schotz can be contacted at 082 319 8673, or anonymous tips can be shared via the SAPS Crime Stop number at 08600 10111.

Hendricks gained international recognition in 1996 when he came out as the world’s first openly gay imam. He led the Al-Ghurbaah Foundation, a Wynberg-based organization that provided support for LGBTQI+ Muslims, helping them navigate their faith and identity.

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