Hundreds in new Tunisia upheaval

Anti-government protesters took to the streets again yesterday as Tunisia began three days of mourning for the dozens of people killed during the overthrow of president Zine al- Abidine Ben Ali.

Tunisia's interim government, which took over after Mr Ben Ali fled to Saudi Arabia last week in the face of widespread popular unrest, has faced protests by crowds angry that some of the old guard are still in the cabinet.

Hundreds protested peacefully in central Tunis yesterday and outside the headquarters of the state-owned Tunisian Transport Company, calling for the removal of senior officials. One employee, who gave his name as Moftah, said: "This company has corrupt people and it's time to demand our rights. We're not going to be silent about this. We want this minority out."

Outside the prime minister's office, protesters jostled Ahmed Ibrahim, leader of the opposition Ettajdid Party and minister of higher education in the new cabinet, angered at his role in a government they dislike.

Three days of national mourning were announced late on Thursday for the victims of the unrest that convulsed Tunisia for several weeks. The government says at least 78 people have been killed since the start of the uprising, while the United Nations has put the toll at around 100.

The new government said schools and universities would reopen on Monday and sporting events, also on hold since last week, would resume soon.