A multitude converge for official memorial service of one-time Kenyan Prime Minister Odinga.

Numerous bereaved citizens have assembled at a national stadium in the Kenyan main city for the official burial ceremony of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Many carried Kenyan symbols, images of the deceased statesman, and donned shirts bearing his portrait to offer last tributes.

Protection is stringent in and around the facility, with law enforcement and armed forces deployed to stop another incident of the commotion witnessed on Thursday during the body-viewing ceremony.

No fewer than three persons perished after police fired gunshots and tear gas in an effort to control the huge crowds who had turned out to accompany the leader's remains from the country's main airport after it returned from India where he passed away.

Heads of State Join Memorial Ceremony

The presidents of Somalia and Ethiopia are among international dignitaries attending the funeral service at the public venue.

Earlier on Friday morning, Odinga's remains were transported to government chambers, where parliamentarians and invited guests viewed it.

Prominent Leader Remembered

Odinga, a influential character on Kenya's political scene, succumbed this past Wednesday in his eightieth year in India, where he had been getting hospital care.

Grievers have been holding foliage and tropical leaves, a representation of loss and sadness among the Luo ethnic group to which Odinga identified with.

Ultimate Transit Scheduled

On Saturday his casket will be transferred to the western city, a city in western Kenya on the shores of Lake Victoria - his political stronghold.

Members of the public will get a chance to view the body before he is buried on Sunday at his farm in Bondo, about 60 kilometers from Kisumu westward.

According to the family, it was Odinga's desire to be buried within the briefest period feasible, preferably within three days.

A seven-day span of grieving has been announced.

Political Legacy

He was a dominant personality in Kenyan politics and for numerous years was the Kenya's chief political challenger, losing five presidential campaigns, most lately in the last election.

Odinga frequently stated he was robbed of win, mentioning ballot tampering.

Kenya laments the loss of a political icon whose legacy will endure for generations to come.

The country continues to respect the heritage of one of its most prominent leaders as the public assemble to bid farewell.