The tragic death of Clement Hadebe, a gay man brutally murdered in Johannesburg by a man who reportedly mistook him for a woman, has ignited a significant debate on Twitter, with many people expressing a range of opinions, some of which have been shockingly harsh and insensitive.
As the story circulated on X (formerly Twitter), many users were quick to comment, with some suggesting that Hadebe could have avoided his fate by simply disclosing his sexuality and gender identity to the man who is now blamed for killing him.
Others went so far as to blame Hadebe for putting himself in danger by leaving with a total stranger.
@GalaxyTwoTwenty remarked: "Never mind him being gay, but why would you leave with men you don't know in SA?“
Another comment from @stray_talk0031 read: "We not laughing at death, RIP. However, imagine the guy who has been kissing him all night in front of his friends he will never be the same again.“
These comments sparked outrage among many, especially within the LGBTQIA+ community.
However, not everyone shared this narrative. Among those who spoke out against the hateful rhetoric was Mohale Motaung, an openly gay man and the ex-husband of South African media personality Somizi Mhlongo.
Important to remember that no one is obligated to disclose their sex or gender identity, especially in situations where they might feel unsafe. Self-disclosure should be a choice, not a condition for safety. #JusticeForClementHadebe
— Mohale Motaung (@mohale_motaung) August 19, 2024
Motaung, who is also a prominent figure in the LGBTQIA+ community, took to X to express his disappointment over the cruel comments directed at the deceased.
"The comments under this post are so nasty! NO ONE deserves to be murdered for being themselves, NO ONE!!" Motaung wrote, highlighting the senselessness of the violence Hadebe faced.
He further emphasised the importance of respecting an individual's right to privacy, particularly in situations where revealing one's identity could lead to harm.
Motaung went on to say: "Important to remember that no one is obligated to disclose their sex or gender identity, especially in situations where they might feel unsafe. Self-disclosure should be a choice, not a condition for safety."
His words echoed a broader concern within the LGBTQIA+ community about the dangers of being forced to disclose personal information under pressure or threat.
In a moving response to Hadebe's tragic death, Motaung also highlighted the issue.
"No one should be forced to reveal their true identity to appease someone else's curiosity or assumptions. Again, Clement Hadebe's tragic story is a reminder that self-disclosure should always be a choice, not a condition for acceptance or safety."
No one should be forced to reveal their true identity to appease someone else's curiosity or assumptions. Again, Clement Hadebe's tragic story is a reminder that self-disclosure should always be a choice, not a condition for acceptance or safety.#JusticeForClementHadebe 🙏🏽 https://t.co/5yUrnuOv7j
His message underscored the need for society to allow individuals to choose when and if they reveal their true identity, without fear of violence or discrimination.
No arrests have been made in connection with Hadebe’s death.