Tunisia sees rising political tensions over assassination

Tunisia’s largest unions are aiming to cripple the government, public transport and commerce with a general strike, and large protests are expected after the assassination of an opposition leader.

Yesterday’s attack on Mohammed Brahmi, of the leftist Popular Current party, raised fears of new chaos in the country that unleashed the Arab Spring. Tunisia is on the cusp of enshrining a new constitution meant to lead the way to lasting democracy.

Angry anti-government demonstrations broke out across Tunisia yesterday, with protesters blaming the government of Islamist party Ennahda for the killing.

Unions called a nationwide strike today and new protests are expected.

Mr Brahmi’s party told the press that it is postponing his funeral, initially planned for today, amid fears that it could inflame supporters on an already tense day.