Amos Khaemba, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over four years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.

- Chief of Environment Geoffrey Mosiria has shared his views on planned demonstrations over blogger Albert Omondi Owang's murder.

A section of Kenyans vowed to proceed with protests on Tuesday, June 17, to demand more action following the death of the blogger at Central Police Station.

The last demonstrations in the Central Business District (CBD) turned chaotic after protesters vandalised newly installed dustbins.

But in a statement, Mosiria urged Kenyans angered by the blogger's death not to use the rage to destroy public property.

He said even though the constitution allows Kenyans to express their rights and views through demonstration, it should be done respectfully and constructively.

"Demonstrating is everyone’s constitutional right and a vital part of expressing grievances in a democratic society. However, while exercising this right, it is important to do so peacefully and responsibly. Destroying public property or damaging a fellow citizen’s property undermines the very message being conveyed. Let us always air our grievances respectfully and constructively, no violence, just peace," Mosiria stated.

Mosiria pleaded with the organisers of the protests to call them off, arguing that the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Eliud Lagat, whom Kenyans were pushing to be sacked, had already stepped aside to allow investigations.

"There's no need for the demonstration, as the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) has stepped aside to give room for investigations. Additionally, Albert’s father has confirmed that he has spoken with our president and agreed to give time for the investigation to continue and ensure justice is given to the family of Albert," he said.

Earlier, the chief officer rebuked the protesters who took advantage of the demonstrations to vandalise newly installed dustbins.

In a statement, Mosiria said it was sad for a section of Kenyans to hide behind the constitutional rights to demonstrate to destroy properties.

He wondered how Kenyans would have the courage to blame Governor Johnson Sakaja's administration over the garbage menace in CBD when goons have destroyed the dustbins.

He said that as Kenyans exercise their constitutional right to demonstrate, they should not destroy properties meant to serve everyone.

Mosiria further dismissed claims that officials linked to Governor Sakaja hired goons to vandalise dustbins

He termed viral WhatsApp chats linking to the destruction as fake and meant to tarnish his name.

He blamed Embakasi East MP Babu Owino for the fake leaks about Sakaja's allies hiring goons.

Source: TUKO.co.ke