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A quartet of persons lost their lives in Nairobi when law enforcement opened fire and used teargas to disperse huge gatherings at a sports arena where statesman Raila Odinga's remains was lying in state.

Political Leader Mourned

The statesman, who had been a significant presence in the nation's political landscape for decades, passed away on midweek at age 80 while undergoing healthcare in India.

He fought tirelessly for democratic systems, and we experience those rights today because of his work.

Disorder Unfolds at Arena

Countless supporters congregated on roadways from early morning, with mayhem breaking out when massive group breached a barrier at Nairobi's main stadium, causing soldiers to fire in the air.

• A pair of persons were shot dead at the stadium
• Death toll later rose to 4
• Scores of individuals were hurt
• Law enforcement employed irritants to scatter thousands mourners

Airport Incident and Government Building Confrontation

During the morning, countless of mourners briefly stormed the capital's aviation hub, interrupting a ceremony where the head of state and other officials were welcoming Odinga's remains with armed forces tribute.

This incident led to a brief stoppage of aviation services.

Groups also overwhelmed adjacent streets and tried to enter parliament, where the administration had first arranged the open visitation.

Political Heritage and Ethnic Backing

While predominantly identified as an government critic, Odinga became head of government in 2008 and also established a political pact with Ruto last year in a public service characterized by shifting alliances.

He generated passionate devotion among supporters, notably in his Luo community based in the country's west, many of whom maintain he was denied the highest office by vote manipulation.

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