Thousands of Kenyans gather in Nyayo Stadium for state funeral in Nairobi

Thousands of mourners gathered at the National Stadium in the Kenyan capital for the state funeral of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Many carried national flags, pictures of the late leader and wore T-shirts printed with his image to pay their last respects.

Security remains tight in and around the stadium, with police and army officers deployed to prevent a repeat of the disturbances seen on Thursday during the viewing ceremony.

at least Three people died after police fired bullets and tear gas In an attempt to contain the huge crowds that came out to escort Odinga’s body from the country’s main airport after his arrival from India, where he died.

The presidents of Somalia and Ethiopia were among the regional leaders who attended the funeral ceremony at Nyayo National Stadium.

Earlier on Friday morning, Odinga’s body was taken to Parliament, where it was viewed by members of Parliament and selected dignitaries.

Odinga, a giant figure in the Kenyan political scene, died on Wednesday at the age of 80 in India, where he was receiving medical treatment.

Mourners carried branches and palm fronds, a symbol of mourning and grief among Odinga’s Luo ethnic group.

His body will be transported on Saturday to the city of Kisumu in western Kenya, on the shores of Lake Victoria, his political stronghold.

Members of the public will have the opportunity to view the body before he is buried on Sunday at his farm in Bondo, about 60 kilometers west of Kisumu.

According to the family, Odinga’s wish was for him to be buried in the shortest possible time, ideally within 72 hours.

Seven days of mourning were declared.

He has been a prominent figure in Kenyan politics and for many years was the country’s main opposition leader, losing five presidential campaigns, the last three years ago.

Odinga has repeatedly said he was cheated out of victory, citing vote-rigging.