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A quartet of persons were killed in Kenya's capital when security forces shot and employed chemical irritants to scatter huge gatherings at a venue where statesman Raila Odinga's body was on public view.

Political Leader Mourned

The statesman, who had been a major force in the country's governance for many years, passed away on Wednesday at age 80 while in hospital care in the Asian nation.

He struggled relentlessly for multi-party democracy, and we benefit from those liberties today because of his struggle.

Chaos Unfolds at Arena

Thousands supporters assembled on roadways from dawn, with chaos breaking out when enormous throng breached a entrance at the city's central arena, prompting military personnel to shoot skyward.

• Two individuals perished from bullets at the stadium
• Fatalities subsequently increased to four
• Scores of persons were hurt
• Law enforcement employed irritants to disperse thousands attendees

Aviation Hub Event and Government Building Standoff

Previously that day, thousands of supporters momentarily entered the capital's aviation hub, halting a ceremony where the head of state and dignitaries were receiving Odinga's body with armed forces tribute.

This situation caused a two-hour suspension of airport operations.

Groups also occupied adjacent streets and tried to enter parliament, where the authorities had originally scheduled the open visitation.

Political Legacy and Ethnic Support

Though mainly known as an government critic, Odinga served as prime minister in 2008 and also struck a alliance with the president last year in a political journey defined by changing partnerships.

He commanded passionate devotion among followers, especially in his ethnic group based in western Kenya, many of whom maintain he was denied the nation's leadership by election irregularities.

Many of Odinga's followers, who were not living in 1991 when Kenya became a multi-faction governance, paid tribute to Odinga's contributions as an campaigner.