Thousands of Afghans have staged a peaceful protest against the killing of a prominent pro-government Muslim cleric in a mosque bomb blast.

At least 5,000 people Sunday took to the streets in the eastern Afghan province of Khost, where Mullah Ahmad Khan was killed Friday during midday prayers. At least 15 worshippers were wounded in the blast.

The protesters urged the government to provide better security for religious leaders.

No one has claimed responsibility for the attack. But authorities blame Taleban insurgents who have in the past killed several influential clerics who had denounced the militants and expressed support for President Hamid Karzai.