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Four people perished in Kenya's capital when security forces opened fire and deployed teargas to break up huge gatherings at a venue where statesman Raila Odinga's corpse was displayed for homage.

National Leader Mourned

The statesman, who remained a prominent player in Kenyan politics for decades, passed away on midweek at age 80 while in hospital care in the Asian nation.

He fought tirelessly for democratic systems, and we benefit from those liberties today because of his efforts.

Turmoil Erupts at Stadium

Countless followers gathered on the streets from early morning, with mayhem occurring when a large crowd forced open a barrier at Nairobi's main stadium, prompting soldiers to discharge weapons upward.

• Two individuals perished from bullets at the venue
• Fatalities subsequently increased to 4
• Numerous people sustained injuries
• Authorities deployed chemical agents to disperse thousands mourners

Airport Incident and Parliament Standoff

Previously that day, numerous of grievers briefly stormed the capital's aviation hub, disrupting a ceremony where the nation's leader and dignitaries were receiving Odinga's body with military honors.

This situation prompted a brief stoppage of airport operations.

Assemblies also overwhelmed adjacent streets and sought to penetrate parliament, where the government had first arranged the community homage.

National Heritage and Community Backing

Though mainly known as an government critic, Odinga became head of government in 2008 and also formed a alliance with Ruto last year in a political journey marked by changing partnerships.

He inspired passionate devotion among adherents, especially in his Luo community based in the country's west, many of whom contend he was prevented from obtaining the presidency by vote manipulation.

Countless of Odinga's supporters, who were not yet born in 1991 when Kenya transitioned to a multi-faction governance, expressed respect to Odinga's efforts as an activist.