Police in Kassanda District have launched a manhunt for a local defence chairperson accused of killing his wife in a brutal act of domestic violence that has left the community of Ndaiga village in Makokoto Subcounty reeling.
According to preliminary investigations, Godfrey Mutungi, 55, stabbed his wife, Jennifer Busingye, 48, multiple times during a violent altercation on the night of April 16.
The couple, who had lived together for years and raised 14 children, reportedly locked themselves inside their home before the fight turned deadly.
Wamala Regional Police Spokesperson ASP Racheal Kawala said neighbours heard loud screams coming from the house but were unable to intervene in time.
“They locked themselves inside their house. Neighbours reported hearing loud screams, but by the time help arrived, it was too late. Jennifer had suffered multiple stab wounds to the face, chest, and head,” said Kawala.
Busingye died while being rushed for treatment. Her body was taken to Kassanda Health Centre IV for a postmortem examination.
Police say the suspect, who serves as the defence chairperson of Ndaiga village, fled the scene immediately after the incident.
A manhunt is underway, with authorities urging the public to assist with any information that could lead to his arrest.
“We are doing everything in our power to bring Mutungi Godfrey to justice,” Kawala stated. “Such acts of violence, especially within the home, are unacceptable. No one is above the law.”
The murder has sparked outrage in the community, with residents expressing shock and sorrow over the violent death of a woman many described as hardworking and devoted to her family.
Others raised concerns about the safety of the surviving children, now left to grapple with the trauma of losing both parents—one to death and the other to flight from the law.
The incident has also reignited calls for stronger measures against domestic violence, especially in rural areas where such cases are often underreported or mishandled.
As police continue to search for Mutungi, local leaders have appealed to residents to remain calm and cooperate with investigators.