Tunisian premier Ghannouchi resigns

TUNIS/PARIS - Tunisian Prime Minister Mohammed Ghannouchi, who heads the transitional government, announced his resignation Sunday amid renewed violent protests in the North African country.

Ghannouchi had been expected to lead the country until new elections are held in the wake of the ousting of president Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, who resigned amid popular unrest last month.

Protests have prompted the resignation of several ministers, including foreign minister Ahmed Ounaies.

Demonstrators had also been calling on Ghannouchi to step down.

According to official figures, at least three people have been killed in protests against the interim government since Friday. There have, however, been unconfirmed reports of four people killed and up to 200 injured.

Street clashes between police and protesters had flared up earlier Sunday, as numerous protesters attempted to reach the interior ministry, witnesses said.

The protesters smashed windows, set up barricades and bombarded police with stones, while security forces reacted with tear gas and warning shots, the witnesses said.