Muhsin Hendricks: Still No Justice After Queer Imam’s Assassination

“Imam Muhsin lived and preached love, inclusion, and courage. His death is not just a loss to the queer Muslim community—it’s a loss to South Africa.” – Sikhander Coopoo, activist

More than two months after the assassination of Imam Muhsin Hendricks, often described as the world’s first openly gay imam, the pain remains raw—and the calls for justice more urgent than ever.

While the investigation into his murder in Gqeberha on 15 February continues, LGBTQ+ activists, faith leaders, and human rights defenders are demanding more than answers.

They want accountability—for the killing, the hate speech that followed, and the culture of religious intolerance that may have helped incite it.

Frustration Mounts Over Delayed Justice

The South African Police Service confirmed to MambaOnline that there have been no arrests connected to the murder and that the Nelson Mandela Bay District Detective Intervention Task Team is “still busy with the investigation.”

The matter is described as “extremely sensitive,” and while no new information has been shared publicly, the police continue to appeal for tips from the public.

But for those closest to the late imam, this lack of progress is not only disheartening—it feels like betrayal.

“I am furious that Imam Hendricks’ murderer remains free while the institutions that are supposed to protect us drag their feet in silence,” said Coopoo.

“Every day that passes without justice reinforces the cruel message that our lives, our loves, and our truths are expendable.”

Incitement and Intimidation

Just days after Hendricks’ death, Sheikh Jameel Adams of the Masjid-ut-Tawheed in Cape Town posted a sermon online in which he labelled Hendricks an “apostate” and condemned homosexuality as a “major sin”.

He also cited religious doctrine supporting the death penalty for same-sex acts and asserted that Hendricks should not have been buried alongside other Muslims.

Activist Sikhander Coopoo, a close friend of Hendricks, has raised the alarm about the dangerous escalation in rhetoric. “To say those things while we were still grieving? It wasn’t just irresponsible—it was terrifying,” he told MambaOnline.

He also confirmed reports of a so-called “hit list” circulating among some conservative Muslim circles. “It includes names of queer Muslims and allies who’ve spoken out. The threat is real,” he said.

A Legacy of Courage and Compassion

One of Imam Hendricks’ long-standing partners in advocacy was Inclusive and Affirming Ministries (IAM), a faith-based LGBTQ+ organisation working to reconcile spirituality with sexual and gender diversity. Rev. Ecclesia de Lange, IAM’s Director, called his death “deeply painful” and described him as “family.”

“He gave queer Muslims their lives back,” said Rev. de Lange. “He proved that being both devout and queer is not only possible—it’s sacred.”

IAM believes that fundamentalism, patriarchy, and ignorance are among the biggest barriers to LGBTQ+ safety and dignity. “Religion is not inherently oppressive,” said de Lange. “But when interpreted without compassion and context, it becomes a weapon.”

No Comment From Hendricks’ Organisation

MambaOnline reached out to the board of the Al-Ghurbaah Foundation, which Imam Muhsin Hendricks founded and led, for comment. While they acknowledged the request, they were unable to provide a response at this time.

A Tipping Point for Queer Faith?

The assassination and the incendiary sermon that followed have cast a harsh spotlight on the tensions between religious conservatism and queer identity in South Africa.

“There is still so much fear,” said Coopoo. “But Muhsin taught us not to be afraid. He was a light in dark places. And now, more than ever, we have to protect what he stood for.”

As calls grow to hold hate speech accountable and investigate potential links between rhetoric and violence, many in the community are left wondering: will this moment finally spark change?

Anyone who can assist with information about the murder of Muhsin Hendricks can contact D/WO Leslie Kilian on 082 410 7492 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or the nearest police station. All information is confidential, and callers may remain anonymous.