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Four individuals lost their lives in Nairobi when armed personnel shot and deployed teargas to disperse massive crowds at a stadium where political figure Raila Odinga's corpse was on public view.

National Figure Remembered

The statesman, who was a major force in the nation's political landscape for decades, succumbed on midweek at eight decades while receiving medical treatment in India.

He campaigned vigorously for political pluralism, and we are enjoying those liberties today because of his work.

Turmoil Erupts at Venue

Countless devotees gathered on thoroughfares from early morning, with disorder occurring when a large crowd forced open a gate at the city's central arena, causing soldiers to fire in the air.

• Two people were shot dead at the venue
• Casualties later rose to 4
• Scores of persons were hurt
• Police deployed chemical agents to clear thousands attendees

Airport Incident and Government Building Standoff

Previously that day, thousands of mourners momentarily entered the capital's aviation hub, disrupting a formal proceeding where the nation's leader and dignitaries were receiving Odinga's body with military honors.

This incident prompted a brief stoppage of flight activities.

Crowds also overwhelmed surrounding thoroughfares and attempted to breach parliament, where the authorities had originally scheduled the open visitation.

National Impact and Community Devotion

Although primarily recognized as an opposition figure, Odinga served as prime minister in 2008 and also established a alliance with the leader last year in a career marked by shifting alliances.

He inspired intense commitment among followers, notably in his Luo community based in the nation's western region, many of whom believe he was deprived of the highest office by election irregularities.

Numerous of Odinga's followers, who were not living in 1991 when Kenya became a pluralistic political system, offered homage to Odinga's contributions as an campaigner.