Arson attack suspected after fire at South Africa’s first gay-friendly mosque

South Africa’s controversial first gay-friendly mosque, which also allows Christian worshippers and women to lead prayers, was damaged by a fire overnight, its founder and the police said Saturday. Police have opened an arson inquiry into the fire which occurred shortly after midnight and damaged the front door of the mosque in Cape Town. There were no injuries and no arrests have yet been made.

Instead of preparing for the holy day these people were preparing to destroy the house of God … it’s very sad, disrespectful.

Dr Taj Hargey, founder of the Open Mosque

The mosque, which welcomes gay people, Christians, and treats men and women equally, opened peacefully in Cape Town last month amid opposition and threats of violence. Just days after it opened, municipal officials said the mosque could be closed down unless it abides by municipal laws. Hargey said Saturday that he has already complied with the requirements and the mosque has been operating. He blamed his opponents for the attack which occurred on the eve of the celebration of the Muslim feast of Eid al-Adha.

Africa Open Mosque