“Today Is The Last Day For Your Lies” Renowned Pastor Murders Wife During Sunday Service Before Killing Himself
KampalaeyeJuly 27, 2025Read original
What began as a peaceful Sunday morning service at New Life Gospel Ministries in Jinja District, Eastern Uganda, ended in tragedy when a pastor fatally attacked his wife before taking his own life in front of shocked congregants.
According to preliminary police reports, 56-year-old Pastor Peter Okello arrived at the church as usual, dressed in his religious robes. Concealed beneath his attire were two knives—an ominous sign of the violence to come.
Eyewitnesses say Okello appeared calm as he took his seat at the front of the church. Without any warning, he suddenly approached his wife, Pastor Grace Okello, who co-founded the church with him, and launched a violent attack using the concealed weapons. Chaos erupted as worshippers screamed and fled in terror.
Grace sustained multiple stab wounds at the altar and died before medical assistance could arrive. Moments later, Peter used one of the knives to slit his own throat, succumbing to his injuries shortly after.
The couple had been married for more than two decades and were prominent religious figures in the Jinja community. However, investigators have revealed that the couple had ongoing disputes over church leadership and property matters. A note believed to have been authored by Peter was found at the scene, in which he accused Grace of betrayal and warned that the day would mark “the end of her lies.”
Postmortem examinations were conducted at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, and the church premises have been sealed off as forensic teams continue to collect evidence. Police investigations are ongoing.
The incident has sent shockwaves across the country and ignited widespread discussions on the prevalence of domestic violence—even within places of worship. Religious leaders in the region have condemned the act, urging couples facing conflict to seek counseling and professional support rather than resorting to violence.
For the congregation of New Life Gospel Ministries, the Sunday meant for prayer and reflection became a harrowing experience. This tragedy underscores the pressing need for mental health awareness, conflict resolution resources, and open dialogue, particularly among spiritual leaders and married couples.
The events of that day remain etched in the minds of those who witnessed them—serving as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences when emotional turmoil goes unaddressed.