Operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi have been temporarily suspended after mourners stormed the runway to touch the coffin of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

In a statement, the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) said the disruption occurred when a large group of grievers breached restricted areas of the airport.

Authorities said: 'KCAA informs the public that operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport have been temporarily suspended due to an ongoing security situation following the arrival of the remains of the late Right Honourable Raila Odinga.

'KCAA regrets any inconvenience and appreciates the public's understanding and cooperation.'

Odinga, 80, died in India on Wednesday while receiving medical treatment. His body arrived in Nairobi on Thursday morning, drawing thousands of mourners.

The crowd's entry into restricted zones led to a precautionary shutdown of the facility, which lasted for around two hours.

Locals then joined a procession accompanying the hearse to the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani, approximately 10 kilometres from the city centre.

The public viewing had initially been planned for Parliament, but the venue was changed to the larger stadium due to the unexpectedly high turnout.

Soon after the relocation, part of the crowd forced its way through a gate at the arena.

Local media later reported that at least four people died after police fired live rounds and tear gas to control the chaotic crowd gathered inside the stadium.

Odinga, a dominant figure in Kenyan politics for decades, ran unsuccessfully for president five times, including in the contested 2007 election that triggered ethnic violence in which nearly 1,000 people were killed.