Two Anglican bishops in Bungoma and Busia have appealed for peace and unity ahead of next year's general election.

Bishops Zakayo Epusi and George Mechumo of Katakwa and Bungoma dioceses appealed to politicians to exhibit maturity and tolerance in their campaigns.

The two were speaking at St Thomas Amagoro ACK Church during the burial of Evangelist Everlyne Muzungu. Muzungu, 49, from Lukusi in Bungoma, was the wife of Amagoro businessman George Ndoto. "Aspirants for various seats from the county representative to the President must not entice the youth with drugs and chang'aa," said Epusi. "I urge the youth and women, who form the bulk of voters, to say no to such evil machinations."

Mechumo urged politicians to "lead their flock properly and accept to be criticised". "Politicians should be like pastors who despite being exalted and thrown dust at, they remain devoted to the Lord," Mechumo told mourners. Meanwhile, Epusi and Malaba Town Council vice chairman Ishmael Orodi have urged the government to find a lasting solution to the raging holiday tuition saga. "If syllabus coverage has been hampered by teachers not doing their work, then action should be taken against them," said Epusi.