Huge crowds gathered in Nairobi on Thursday to pay their respects to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, but the event descended into chaos as police fired shots and tear gas to control surging mourners at a stadium.
Odinga, a towering figure in Kenyan politics who died at age 80 in India on Wednesday, had his body flown back to the capital, drawing thousands eager to see the casket.
The public viewing, relocated to Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani due to overwhelming attendance, began after initial disorder subsided.
Security forces sought to disperse the throngs after a large crowd breached a gate at the packed stadium, prompting the use of tear gas and gunfire.
Local media reported four deaths in the ensuing chaos, with scores injured, including at least three visibly hurt and one with a serious head wound.
A Reuters witness observed soldiers firing in the air, while a police source confirmed two were shot dead at the venue.
It remains unclear whether live ammunition or rubber bullets were deployed.
Men in civilian clothing were seen beating protesters with batons, exacerbating the panic as mourners fled screaming toward exits.
Earlier, thousands stormed Nairobi's international airport during the arrival ceremony, forcing a two-hour suspension of flights after mourners accessed restricted areas.
The procession from the airport to the stadium, about 10 kilometers away, saw crowds escorting the vehicle carrying Odinga's body.
Supporters had also gathered at Lee Funeral Home and around parliament, where the viewing was originally planned.
Odinga, who served as prime minister in 2008 and ran unsuccessfully for president five times, commanded deep loyalty, particularly among the Luo ethnic group in western Kenya.
Mourners carried twigs and palm branches, symbols of grief in Luo tradition.
One supporter described the loss poignantly saying, "We are sad, we have been left as orphans. He is our father."
Another, a motorcycle rider and self-proclaimed devotee, expressed a desire to confirm the casket's contents: "We want to see Baba, how do we know it's him in the casket? Let them show us and we'll be contented."
A university student highlighted Odinga's activism: "He fought tirelessly for multi-party democracy, and we are enjoying those freedoms today because of his struggle."
Following the viewing, dignitaries including President William Ruto observed the coffin.
A seven-day mourning period has been declared, with a state funeral set for Friday at Nyayo National Stadium.
Odinga's body will then travel to Kisumu on Saturday for public viewing, before burial on Sunday at his farm in Bondo, honoring his wish for interment within 72 hours.