Rushing to register candidates and train poll workers, Tunisia's electoral commission has raced to organise presidential elections after the death of leader Beji Caid Essebsi, hoping to protect the country's nascent democracy.

The Independent Higher Authority for Elections (ISIE) snapped into action when Essebsi died on July 25, facing immediate pressure from a constitutional deadline and parties seeking favourable dates.

The body, whose nine members are elected by parliament, brought the date of scheduled polls forward by two months, fixing the first round for September 15.

The constitution stipulates that elections must be held 90 days after a head of state's death. The first round of voting will take place just seven weeks after the funeral.

In a mid-summer dash, ISIE stocked up on indelible ink and sorted through nearly 100 candidate applications, selecting a final list of 26 hopefuls.

"We're in a sprint to respect the rules," ISIE spokeswoman Hasna Ben Slimane told AFP.&nbsp;

"We have to train 55,000 people for&nbsp;inspectors and polling station staff," she said.&nbsp;

"ISIE has experience. It has already organised six elections, but it's still complicated."

The body has overseen a series of historic polls following the 2011 overthrow of dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali in an uprising which sparked revolts across the Arab world.

They include Tunisia's first free election in October 2011 and the first free presidential election in 2014 which brought Essebsi to power.

"ISIE's reaction after the death of Caid Essebsi is a sign of its maturity," said history professor Abdeltif Hannachi.

ISIE has registered some 1.5 million, mostly young, new voters this year, success has given that 65 per cent of voters abstained in the first democratic municipal polls in 2018.

The body has pushed to tighten checks on social networks and campaign finances, Ben Slimane said.&nbsp;

It struggled with both in 2014.

Before campaigning kicked off on Monday, the commission sent "warnings" to political parties asking them to delete problematic sponsored Facebook pages, said ISIE chief Nabil Baffoun.

Tunisian electoral monitor Mourakiboun hailed ISIE for its "independence" but its head Mohamed Marzouk regrets that the body has "not detailed the methods of checking expenses and campaign finances".

Accusations of corruption have swirled in the lead up to the polls, culminating in the arrest of media magnate and presidential hopeful Nabil Karoui for alleged money laundering.&nbsp;

His detention fuelled suspicions of flawed justice, pushing ISIE to quickly assure that nothing, even prison, prevented Karoui from being a candidate.

The decision, Hannachi said, "proves the independence of ISIE, which did not yield to the pressure of those who asked it to remove Nabil Karoui from the race".

Observers have said the previous ISIE-run elections, despite their flaws, were transparent and independent.

Hannachi, who praised the commission's work, said ISIE's model could be "exported to other countries in transition, like Sudan and Algeria".

Rushing to register candidates and train poll workers, Tunisia's electoral commission has raced to organise presidential elections after the death of leader Beji Caid Essebsi, hoping to protect the country's nascent democracy.

Rushing to register candidates and train poll workers, Tunisia's electoral commission has raced to organise presidential elections after the death of leader Beji Caid Essebsi, hoping to protect the country's nascent democracy. The Independent Higher Authority for Elections (ISIE) snapped into action when Essebsi died on July 25, facing immediate pressure from a constitutional deadline and parties seeking favourable dates. The body, whose nine members are elected by parliament, brought the date of scheduled polls forward by two months, fixing the first round for September 15. The constitution stipulates that elections must be held 90 days after a head of state's death. The first round of voting will take place just seven weeks after the funeral. In a mid-summer dash, ISIE stocked up on indelible ink and sorted through nearly 100 candidate applications, selecting a final list of 26 hopefuls. "We're in a sprint to respect the rules," ISIE spokeswoman Hasna Ben Slimane told AFP. "We have to train 55,000 people for inspectors and polling station staff," she said. "ISIE has experience. It has already organised six elections, but it's still complicated." The body has overseen a series of historic polls following the 2011 overthrow of dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali in an uprising which sparked revolts across the Arab world. They include Tunisia's first free election in October 2011 and the first free presidential election in 2014 which brought Essebsi to power. "ISIE's reaction after the death of Caid Essebsi is a sign of its maturity," said history professor Abdeltif Hannachi. ISIE has registered some 1.5 million, mostly young, new voters this year, success has given that 65 per cent of voters abstained in the first democratic municipal polls in 2018. The body has pushed to tighten checks on social networks and campaign finances, Ben Slimane said. It struggled with both in 2014. Before campaigning kicked off on Monday, the commission sent "warnings" to political parties asking them to delete problematic sponsored Facebook pages, said ISIE chief Nabil Baffoun. Tunisian electoral monitor Mourakiboun hailed ISIE for its "independence" but its head Mohamed Marzouk regrets that the body has "not detailed the methods of checking expenses and campaign finances". Accusations of corruption have swirled in the lead up to the polls, culminating in the arrest of media magnate and presidential hopeful Nabil Karoui for alleged money laundering. His detention fuelled suspicions of flawed justice, pushing ISIE to quickly assure that nothing, even prison, prevented Karoui from being a candidate. The decision, Hannachi said, "proves the independence of ISIE, which did not yield to the pressure of those who asked it to remove Nabil Karoui from the race". Observers have said the previous ISIE-run elections, despite their flaws, were transparent and independent. Hannachi, who praised the commission's work, said ISIE's model could be "exported to other countries in transition, like Sudan and Algeria".

Tunisia in 'sprint' to arrange poll after president dies

Tunisia's interim President Mohamed Ennaceur extended on Saturday the nationwide state of emergency until the end of 2019 in view of the upcoming presidential election, the head of the state's office said in a statement Saturday.

Tunisia has been in a state of emergency since November 2015 following a terrorist attack on a beach hotel that killed 38 people. The government has been extending it ever since.

In July, two suicide bombers staged separate attacks on police in Tunisia, killing at least one police officer and injuring nine people.

In early August, the state of emergency was extended for another month.

Late Tunisian President Mohamed Beji Caid Essebsi died on July 25 at the age of 92. The same day, Ennaceur, Tunisia's parliamentary speaker, was sworn in as acting president. The first round of the snap presidential election is scheduled for September 15. 
&nbsp;

Tunisia's interim President Mohamed Ennaceur extended on Saturday the nationwide state of emergency until the end of 2019 in view of the upcoming presidential election, the head of the state's office said in a statement Saturday.

Tunisia's interim President Mohamed Ennaceur extended on Saturday the nationwide state of emergency until the end of 2019 in view of the upcoming presidential election, the head of the state's office said in a statement Saturday. Tunisia has been in a state of emergency since November 2015 following a terrorist attack on a beach hotel that killed 38 people. The government has been extending it ever since. In July, two suicide bombers staged separate attacks on police in Tunisia, killing at least one police officer and injuring nine people. In early August, the state of emergency was extended for another month. Late Tunisian President Mohamed Beji Caid Essebsi died on July 25 at the age of 92. The same day, Ennaceur, Tunisia's parliamentary speaker, was sworn in as acting president. The first round of the snap presidential election is scheduled for September 15.

Tunisia extends nationwide state of emergency until year end ahead of presidential vote

Tunisian 'legmi': Date palm drink favourite during Ramadan

Tunisia bid farewell to its first democratically elected president Beji Caid Essebsi on Saturday at a state funeral attended by foreign leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Qatar’s emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

Essebsi, who helped guide the North African country`s transition to democracy after the 2011 revolution, died aged 92 on Thursday.

Other dignitaries attending his funeral in the capital Tunis included Algerian President Abdelkader Ben Saleh, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, and King Felipe VI of Spain, along with thousands of Tunisians.&nbsp; 
The late president`s coffin, covered with the red and white Tunisian flag, was placed on a military truck in the palace of Carthage, about 10 kilometres from the capital.

Many roads have been closed and security forces deployed in most areas of Tunis and near the Al Jallaz cemetery.

Tunisians lined up the streets leading to the Carthage district, waving flags and chanting the national anthem.&nbsp;

Thousands filled the capital’s Habib Bourguiba Avenue, a focal point of the 2011 revolution that sparked uprisings across the Arab world, known as the Arab Spring.

"It is a sad day for Tunisia," said a woman named Nabila. "We lost a great statesman who had a big role after 2011 revolution and helped unite Tunisians and ease historical differences with the Islamists."

Hours after Essebsi`s death, parliament speaker Mohamed Ennaceur was sworn in as interim president in line with the constitution in a smooth transition of power. The electoral commission announced a presidential election for Sept. 15, two months earlier than scheduled.&nbsp;

A parliamentary vote is set for October&nbsp;6.

Essebsi rose to prominence after the overthrow of veteran autocrat Zine El-Abidine Ben Ali, which was followed by Arab Spring revolts against authoritarian leaders across the Middle East and North Africa, including in Libya and Egypt.

Drafted in as premier after Ben Ali`s fall, Essebsi in 2012 founded the secular Nidaa Tounes party, now part of the governing coalition, to counter-balance the resurgence of Islamists who were suppressed under Ben Ali. Two years later, Essebsi became Tunisia`s first freely elected head of state.

Tunisia bid farewell to its first democratically elected president Beji Caid Essebsi on Saturday at a state funeral attended by foreign leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Qatar’s emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

Tunisia bid farewell to its first democratically elected president Beji Caid Essebsi on Saturday at a state funeral attended by foreign leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Qatar’s emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Essebsi, who helped guide the North African country`s transition to democracy after the 2011 revolution, died aged 92 on Thursday. Other dignitaries attending his funeral in the capital Tunis included Algerian President Abdelkader Ben Saleh, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, and King Felipe VI of Spain, along with thousands of Tunisians. The late president`s coffin, covered with the red and white Tunisian flag, was placed on a military truck in the palace of Carthage, about 10 kilometres from the capital. Many roads have been closed and security forces deployed in most areas of Tunis and near the Al Jallaz cemetery. Tunisians lined up the streets leading to the Carthage district, waving flags and chanting the national anthem. Thousands filled the capital’s Habib Bourguiba Avenue, a focal point of the 2011 revolution that sparked uprisings across the Arab world, known as the Arab Spring. "It is a sad day for Tunisia," said a woman named Nabila. "We lost a great statesman who had a big role after 2011 revolution and helped unite Tunisians and ease historical differences with the Islamists." Hours after Essebsi`s death, parliament speaker Mohamed Ennaceur was sworn in as interim president in line with the constitution in a smooth transition of power. The electoral commission announced a presidential election for Sept. 15, two months earlier than scheduled. A parliamentary vote is set for October 6. Essebsi rose to prominence after the overthrow of veteran autocrat Zine El-Abidine Ben Ali, which was followed by Arab Spring revolts against authoritarian leaders across the Middle East and North Africa, including in Libya and Egypt. Drafted in as premier after Ben Ali`s fall, Essebsi in 2012 founded the secular Nidaa Tounes party, now part of the governing coalition, to counter-balance the resurgence of Islamists who were suppressed under Ben Ali. Two years later, Essebsi became Tunisia`s first freely elected head of state.

Tunisia bids farewell to president Essebsi at state funeral

Tunisia's parliamentary speaker will be sworn in as interim president, the body's vice head told reporters, just hours after the death of ailing leader <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisia-president-dies-at-92-presidency-238400&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjItqTflNDjAhVKrI8KHULDCgEQFjAAegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0PB3Y_oEycL2x2HcNw8gr9">Beji Caid Essebsi</a>.

"Mohamed Ennaceur will take the oath in parliament" at 1500 GMT, Abdelfattah Mourou said, adding that under the constitution he was entitled to serve for up to 90 days.

Essebsi, the North African country's first leader elected in nationwide polls, died Thursday at the age of 92.

Tunisia's parliamentary speaker will be sworn in as interim president, the body's vice head told reporters, just hours after the death of ailing leader Beji Caid Essebsi.

Tunisia's parliamentary speaker will be sworn in as interim president, the body's vice head told reporters, just hours after the death of ailing leader Beji Caid Essebsi. "Mohamed Ennaceur will take the oath in parliament" at 1500 GMT, Abdelfattah Mourou said, adding that under the constitution he was entitled to serve for up to 90 days. Essebsi, the North African country's first leader elected in nationwide polls, died Thursday at the age of 92.

After President's death, Tunisia parliamentary speaker to be interim president

Tunisian President, Beji Caid Essebsi, the North African country's first democratically elected leader, died Thursday at the age of 92, his office said.

The veteran politician, the oldest head of state after Britain's Queen Elizabeth II, came to power in 2014, three years after the Arab Spring uprising toppled longtime despot Zine El Abidine Ben Ali and sparked revolts in several Arab nations.

He had been hospitalised with a severe illness in late June and was returned to intensive care on Thursday.

Tunisian President, Beji Caid Essebsi, the North African country's first democratically elected leader, died Thursday at the age of 92, his office said. The veteran politician, the oldest head of state after Britain's Queen Elizabeth II, came to power in 2014, three years after the Arab Spring uprising toppled longtime despot Zine El Abidine Ben Ali and sparked revolts in several Arab nations.

Tunisian President, Beji Caid Essebsi, the North African country's first democratically elected leader, died Thursday at the age of 92, his office said. The veteran politician, the oldest head of state after Britain's Queen Elizabeth II, came to power in 2014, three years after the Arab Spring uprising toppled longtime despot Zine El Abidine Ben Ali and sparked revolts in several Arab nations. He had been hospitalised with a severe illness in late June and was returned to intensive care on Thursday.

Tunisia's President  Beji Caid Essebsi dies at 92

Tunisia's Prime Minister Youssef Chahed has banned the full-face veil or Niqab in all public offices due to security concerns. Watch this video to know more.

Tunisia reacts to twin suicide blasts, bans 'Niqab' in public offices

Tunisian Prime Minister Youssef Chahed has banned the wearing of the niqab face veil in public institutions "for security reasons" an official source told Reuters on Friday.

The decision follows Tuesday's suicide bombing in Tunis by a wanted militant.

It was the third such incident within a week and came as <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/migrant-boat-with-86-on-board-sinks-off-tunisia-4-rescued-233077&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwis_6bN6Z3jAhVxguYKHTx3CAoQFjAAegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2sGUaGaPDQOLExzJTTJv02">Tunisia </a>prepares for autumn elections and at the peak of a tourist season in which the country hopes to draw a record number of visitors.

Islamic State has claimed all three attacks.

Tunisian Prime Minister Youssef Chahed has banned the wearing of the niqab face veil in public institutions "for security reasons" an official source told Reuters on Friday.

Tunisian Prime Minister Youssef Chahed has banned the wearing of the niqab face veil in public institutions "for security reasons" an official source told Reuters on Friday. The decision follows Tuesday's suicide bombing in Tunis by a wanted militant. It was the third such incident within a week and came as Tunisia prepares for autumn elections and at the peak of a tourist season in which the country hopes to draw a record number of visitors. Islamic State has claimed all three attacks.

Tunisian PM Youssef Chahed bans wearing of niqab in public institutions

More than 80 migrants have gone missing and only four were rescued after their boat capsized off Tunisia on its way from Libya to Italy, Tunisia's coast guard said Thursday.

The Red Crescent and the navy told AFP that three Malians and an Ivorian were rescued off Zarzis in southern Tunisia on Wednesday by the coast guard who had been alerted by local fishermen.

The Ivorian, however, died in hospital and one of the Malians has also been hospitalised in intensive care.

Those rescued had told Tunisian officials that 86 people were on board their inflatable boat when it left from the Libyan town of Zuwara, west of Tripoli, on its way to cross the Mediterranean to Italy.

"About 80 migrants are feared dead. More updates are needed in order to confirm what happened and the actual number of missing," Flavio Di Giacomo, a spokesman for the International Organisation for Migration, tweeted.

Libya, which has been wracked by chaos since the 2011 uprising that killed veteran dictator Moamer Kadhafi, has long been a major transit route for migrants, especially from sub-Saharan Africa, desperate to reach Europe. 
On Tuesday night, 44 migrants were killed in an air strike on their detention centre in a Tripoli suburb.

More than 80 migrants have gone missing and only four were rescued after their boat capsized off Tunisia on its way from Libya to Italy, Tunisia's coast guard said Thursday.

More than 80 migrants have gone missing and only four were rescued after their boat capsized off Tunisia on its way from Libya to Italy, Tunisia's coast guard said Thursday. The Red Crescent and the navy told AFP that three Malians and an Ivorian were rescued off Zarzis in southern Tunisia on Wednesday by the coast guard who had been alerted by local fishermen. The Ivorian, however, died in hospital and one of the Malians has also been hospitalised in intensive care. Those rescued had told Tunisian officials that 86 people were on board their inflatable boat when it left from the Libyan town of Zuwara, west of Tripoli, on its way to cross the Mediterranean to Italy. "About 80 migrants are feared dead. More updates are needed in order to confirm what happened and the actual number of missing," Flavio Di Giacomo, a spokesman for the International Organisation for Migration, tweeted. Libya, which has been wracked by chaos since the 2011 uprising that killed veteran dictator Moamer Kadhafi, has long been a major transit route for migrants, especially from sub-Saharan Africa, desperate to reach Europe. On Tuesday night, 44 migrants were killed in an air strike on their detention centre in a Tripoli suburb.

Migrant boat with 86 on board sinks off Tunisia, 4 rescued

Two suicide bombs stormed the Tunisian capital on Thursday killing a police officer and injuring several others.

The injured include nine people including policemen and civilians.

"One of the two police officers wounded in the suicide attack this morning has died", interior ministry spokesman Sofiene Zaag said.

The suicide bombers attacked police and the national guard on the main street in central Tunis.

The attacks took place at around 10:50 am and 11 am.&nbsp;

"It was a suicide attack, which took place at 10:50" (0950 GMT), on Habib Bourguiba, Interior Ministry spokesman Sofiene Zaag told AFP.

"At 11:00 am (1000 GMT) an individual blew himself up outside the back door" of the base, wounding four security personnel, Zaag said.

Civil protection units and police rapidly deployed to Habib Bourguiba avenue, where the interior ministry is located.&nbsp;

People initially fled in panic, before some crowded around the scene of the attack, expressing anger against the authorities. Shops and offices were closed by police.&nbsp;

On October 29 last year an unemployed graduate blew herself up near police cars on the same street, killing herself and wounding 26 people, mostly police officers, according to the interior ministry.

(With inputs from AFP)

Two suicide bombs stormed the Tunisian capital on Thursday killing a police officer and injuring several others. The injured include nine people including policemen and civilians.

Two suicide bombs stormed the Tunisian capital on Thursday killing a police officer and injuring several others. The injured include nine people including policemen and civilians. "One of the two police officers wounded in the suicide attack this morning has died", interior ministry spokesman Sofiene Zaag said. The suicide bombers attacked police and the national guard on the main street in central Tunis. The attacks took place at around 10:50 am and 11 am. "It was a suicide attack, which took place at 10:50" (0950 GMT), on Habib Bourguiba, Interior Ministry spokesman Sofiene Zaag told AFP. "At 11:00 am (1000 GMT) an individual blew himself up outside the back door" of the base, wounding four security personnel, Zaag said. Civil protection units and police rapidly deployed to Habib Bourguiba avenue, where the interior ministry is located. People initially fled in panic, before some crowded around the scene of the attack, expressing anger against the authorities. Shops and offices were closed by police. On October 29 last year an unemployed graduate blew herself up near police cars on the same street, killing herself and wounding 26 people, mostly police officers, according to the interior ministry. (With inputs from AFP)

Double suicide blasts kill 1, wound nine in Tunisia capital: Ministry

A Maltese armed forces patrol boat picked up more than 200 migrants from two dinghies in the Mediterranean and was bringing them to Malta on Saturday, a spokesman said.

At least one pregnant woman and a number of children were believed to be among the 216 rescued migrants. Their nationality was not known.

An AFM spokesman said a patrol boat had been deployed to a sinking dinghy south of Malta on Friday. After picking up the migrants, it was diverted to a second dinghy while on its way to Malta, picking up those migrants as well.

The armed forces said that with good weather conditions prevailing, departures of migrants from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-dead-in-libya-attack-claimed-by-islamic-state-report-219694">Libya</a>, Tunisia, and Algeria had increased in the past two days, resulting in 12 migrant boats arriving in Sicily, Sardinia, and Lampedusa.

The Libyan coast guard said on Friday it had rescued 290 migrants from inflatable rafts near the capital Tripoli.

A Maltese armed forces patrol boat picked up more than 200 migrants from two dinghies in the Mediterranean and was bringing them to Malta on Saturday, a spokesman said.

A Maltese armed forces patrol boat picked up more than 200 migrants from two dinghies in the Mediterranean and was bringing them to Malta on Saturday, a spokesman said. At least one pregnant woman and a number of children were believed to be among the 216 rescued migrants. Their nationality was not known. An AFM spokesman said a patrol boat had been deployed to a sinking dinghy south of Malta on Friday. After picking up the migrants, it was diverted to a second dinghy while on its way to Malta, picking up those migrants as well. The armed forces said that with good weather conditions prevailing, departures of migrants from Libya, Tunisia, and Algeria had increased in the past two days, resulting in 12 migrant boats arriving in Sicily, Sardinia, and Lampedusa. The Libyan coast guard said on Friday it had rescued 290 migrants from inflatable rafts near the capital Tripoli.

Malta rescues 216 migrants in upsurge of Mediterranean crossings

Leaders started arriving on Saturday for the annual Arab League summit, hosted this year by Tunisia.

Presidents from Lebanon, Yemen and Iraq were among those who landed in Tunis to attend the summit, which is likely to focus on Washington's recent decision to recognize Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, as well as its earlier move to recognise Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

Arab states consider the Golan Heights, captured by Israel in the 1967 Middle East war, as occupied Syrian land.

Tunisia will coordinate with fellow Arab countries to contain any fallout from the US decision to recognize Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, Foreign Minister Khemaies Jhinaoui said on Friday.

Leaders started arriving on Saturday for the annual Arab League summit, hosted this year by Tunisia. Presidents from Lebanon, Yemen and Iraq were among those who landed in Tunis to attend the summit, which is likely to focus on Washington's recent decision to recognize Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, as well as its earlier move to recognise Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

Leaders started arriving on Saturday for the annual Arab League summit, hosted this year by Tunisia. Presidents from Lebanon, Yemen and Iraq were among those who landed in Tunis to attend the summit, which is likely to focus on Washington's recent decision to recognize Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, as well as its earlier move to recognise Jerusalem as Israel's capital. Arab states consider the Golan Heights, captured by Israel in the 1967 Middle East war, as occupied Syrian land. Tunisia will coordinate with fellow Arab countries to contain any fallout from the US decision to recognize Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, Foreign Minister Khemaies Jhinaoui said on Friday.

Leaders arrive in Tunis ahead of Arab summit; Golan Heights in focus 

Tunisian authorities on Saturday launched multiple investigations into the sudden deaths of 11 newborn babies at a state maternity hospital in the capital.&nbsp;

Tunisia's health minister Abdel-Raouf El-Sherif resigned&nbsp;after 11 babies mysteriously died, state news agency TAP said.

The health ministry was conducting medical and hygiene checks and probing the management of the hospital pharmacy after the babies died Thursday and Friday at the Rabta clinic, a spokesman told AFP.&nbsp;

Prosecutors said they had opened a judicial inquiry into the deaths.

The Tunisian pediatrics society wrote in a Facebook statement that "elements of the ongoing investigation" pointed to an infection caused by an intravenous feeding product.

The association called on the authorities to "shed light" on the situation and recalled the "precarious conditions in which health professionals work".

The health ministry said in a statement that "preventive measures and treatment have been taken to avoid other victims and to ensure the health status of other babies in the maternity ward".

The independent Tunisian Forum of Economic and Social Rights called on the health minister to resign over the deaths.

The public health system, once a source of pride in Tunisia, has been hit by management and financial problems that lowered standards and caused drug shortages.

Tunisian authorities on Saturday launched multiple investigations into the sudden deaths of 11 newborn babies at a state maternity hospital in the capital. Tunisia's health minister Abdel-Raouf El-Sherif resigned after 11 babies mysteriously died, state news agency TAP said.

Tunisian authorities on Saturday launched multiple investigations into the sudden deaths of 11 newborn babies at a state maternity hospital in the capital. Tunisia's health minister Abdel-Raouf El-Sherif resigned after 11 babies mysteriously died, state news agency TAP said. The health ministry was conducting medical and hygiene checks and probing the management of the hospital pharmacy after the babies died Thursday and Friday at the Rabta clinic, a spokesman told AFP. Prosecutors said they had opened a judicial inquiry into the deaths. The Tunisian pediatrics society wrote in a Facebook statement that "elements of the ongoing investigation" pointed to an infection caused by an intravenous feeding product. The association called on the authorities to "shed light" on the situation and recalled the "precarious conditions in which health professionals work". The health ministry said in a statement that "preventive measures and treatment have been taken to avoid other victims and to ensure the health status of other babies in the maternity ward". The independent Tunisian Forum of Economic and Social Rights called on the health minister to resign over the deaths. The public health system, once a source of pride in Tunisia, has been hit by management and financial problems that lowered standards and caused drug shortages.

Tunisia probes deaths of 11 newborns at maternity clinic

Tunisia's health minister has resigned after the sudden deaths of 11 newborn babies at a state maternity hospital sparked an outcry in the country, the government said.

Prime Minister Youssef Chahed accepted Abderraouf Cherif's resignation, the premier's office said on Facebook late on Saturday.

"Those responsible for any negligence will face legal proceedings," the prime minister said at the maternity hospital in the capital late Saturday, according to a video released by his office.

Leading newspaper Essafa on Sunday cried foul and compared the deaths of the babies to a "state crime".

A medical association said the sudden deaths could have been caused by a food product that had gone bad.

The babies died Thursday and Friday at the Rabta clinic in Tunis, which is part of a large medical centre in the capital.

Since then authorities have launched several investigations, including medical and hygiene checks by the health ministry, which was also probing the management of the hospital pharmacy.

Prosecutors said they had opened a judicial inquiry into the deaths.

The Tunisian paediatrics society wrote in a statement on Facebook that "elements of the ongoing investigation" pointed to an infection caused by a food product given by gastric tube.

The association called on the authorities to "shed light" on the situation and recalled the "precarious conditions in which health professionals work".

The health ministry said in a statement that "preventive measures and treatment have been taken to avoid other victims and to ensure the health of other babies in the maternity ward".

The independent Tunisian Forum of Economic and Social Rights had called on the health minister to resign over the deaths.

The public health system, once a source of pride in Tunisia, has been hit by management and financial problems that lowered standards and caused drug shortages.

Tunisia's health minister has resigned after the sudden deaths of 11 newborn babies at a state maternity hospital sparked an outcry in the country, the government said.

Tunisia's health minister has resigned after the sudden deaths of 11 newborn babies at a state maternity hospital sparked an outcry in the country, the government said. Prime Minister Youssef Chahed accepted Abderraouf Cherif's resignation, the premier's office said on Facebook late on Saturday. "Those responsible for any negligence will face legal proceedings," the prime minister said at the maternity hospital in the capital late Saturday, according to a video released by his office. Leading newspaper Essafa on Sunday cried foul and compared the deaths of the babies to a "state crime". A medical association said the sudden deaths could have been caused by a food product that had gone bad. The babies died Thursday and Friday at the Rabta clinic in Tunis, which is part of a large medical centre in the capital. Since then authorities have launched several investigations, including medical and hygiene checks by the health ministry, which was also probing the management of the hospital pharmacy. Prosecutors said they had opened a judicial inquiry into the deaths. The Tunisian paediatrics society wrote in a statement on Facebook that "elements of the ongoing investigation" pointed to an infection caused by a food product given by gastric tube. The association called on the authorities to "shed light" on the situation and recalled the "precarious conditions in which health professionals work". The health ministry said in a statement that "preventive measures and treatment have been taken to avoid other victims and to ensure the health of other babies in the maternity ward". The independent Tunisian Forum of Economic and Social Rights had called on the health minister to resign over the deaths. The public health system, once a source of pride in Tunisia, has been hit by management and financial problems that lowered standards and caused drug shortages.

Tunisian health minister quits over deaths of newborns

Tunisian Food Fest: India-Tunisia celebrate 60 years of diplomatic ties

Delhi gets a flavour of Tunis in Tunisian food festival

Mohamed Salah scored a last-minute winner as Egypt came from behind to end Tunisia's 100 percent record in African Nations Cup qualifying with a 3-2 win in Alexandria on Friday.

Morocco beat Cameroon 2-0 in Casablanca and are now one point from a place in next year’s finals while tiny Burundi moved a step closer to qualification for the first time with a 5-2 away win over South Sudan.

Egypt and Tunisia had already secured their places at the finals by making sure of the top two spots in Group J but their clash was still bristling with tension after last week's victory for Tunisian club Esperance over Cairo’s Al Ahly in the African Champions League final.

Naim Sliti scored the opener for Tunisia after 13 minutes but Egypt were level at the break after Mahmoud "Trezeguet" Hassan equalised with a deflected shot.

Baher El Mohamady put Egypt ahead with a 59th-minute header but fellow defender Ahmed Hegazy handed Sliti the chance to score his second with a poor clearance 18 minutes from time.

Salah, who had a quiet match, then produced yet another last-gasp winner for his country in the 90th minute with a deft chip over the goalkeeper after a quick interchange of passes.

Tunisia remained top of the group on the head-to-head countback with both countries on 12 points from five matches. Egypt have now won four matches since the World Cup in Russia under new coach Javier Aguirre.

A hat-trick from Abdul Razak Fiston inspired Burundi to a comfortable win over South Sudan in Juba and top place in Group C with nine points from five games.

Mali, on eight points, and Gabon, with seven, meet in Libreville on Saturday in the penultimate round of matches.

Burundi, reinforced in recent matches by Saido Berahino’s decision to switch international allegiance from England, would need a result at home to Gabon in their last qualifier in March to finish in the top two places and book a place in June’s finals in Cameroon.

Berahino and Cedric Hamissi scored Burundi’s other goals while Atak Lual and Dominic Aboy Koni got South Sudan’s first goals of the campaign, although they remained without any points.

Morocco's Hakim Ziyech netted a 54th-minute penalty and struck with a shot from outside the box 12 minutes later to settle the heavyweight clash against Cameroon in Casablanca.

Cameroon are playing preliminaries despite qualifying for the tournament as hosts.

Nations Cup qualifying continues across Africa on Saturday and Sunday with more countries set to join Cameroon, Egypt, Madagascar, Senegal and Tunisia in the 24-team finals line-up.

Mohamed Salah scored a last-minute winner as Egypt came from behind to end Tunisia's 100 percent record in African Nations Cup qualifying with a 3-2 win in Alexandria on Friday.

Mohamed Salah scored a last-minute winner as Egypt came from behind to end Tunisia's 100 percent record in African Nations Cup qualifying with a 3-2 win in Alexandria on Friday. Morocco beat Cameroon 2-0 in Casablanca and are now one point from a place in next year’s finals while tiny Burundi moved a step closer to qualification for the first time with a 5-2 away win over South Sudan. Egypt and Tunisia had already secured their places at the finals by making sure of the top two spots in Group J but their clash was still bristling with tension after last week's victory for Tunisian club Esperance over Cairo’s Al Ahly in the African Champions League final. Naim Sliti scored the opener for Tunisia after 13 minutes but Egypt were level at the break after Mahmoud "Trezeguet" Hassan equalised with a deflected shot. Baher El Mohamady put Egypt ahead with a 59th-minute header but fellow defender Ahmed Hegazy handed Sliti the chance to score his second with a poor clearance 18 minutes from time. Salah, who had a quiet match, then produced yet another last-gasp winner for his country in the 90th minute with a deft chip over the goalkeeper after a quick interchange of passes. Tunisia remained top of the group on the head-to-head countback with both countries on 12 points from five matches. Egypt have now won four matches since the World Cup in Russia under new coach Javier Aguirre. A hat-trick from Abdul Razak Fiston inspired Burundi to a comfortable win over South Sudan in Juba and top place in Group C with nine points from five games. Mali, on eight points, and Gabon, with seven, meet in Libreville on Saturday in the penultimate round of matches. Burundi, reinforced in recent matches by Saido Berahino’s decision to switch international allegiance from England, would need a result at home to Gabon in their last qualifier in March to finish in the top two places and book a place in June’s finals in Cameroon. Berahino and Cedric Hamissi scored Burundi’s other goals while Atak Lual and Dominic Aboy Koni got South Sudan’s first goals of the campaign, although they remained without any points. Morocco's Hakim Ziyech netted a 54th-minute penalty and struck with a shot from outside the box 12 minutes later to settle the heavyweight clash against Cameroon in Casablanca. Cameroon are playing preliminaries despite qualifying for the tournament as hosts. Nations Cup qualifying continues across Africa on Saturday and Sunday with more countries set to join Cameroon, Egypt, Madagascar, Senegal and Tunisia in the 24-team finals line-up.

Salah scores late winner for Egypt, Morocco sink Cameroon

Woman bomber blows herself up in Tunisia

A woman suicide bomber blew herself up Monday near police vehicles in the centre of the Tunisian capital, injuring nine people, the interior ministry said.

Ministry spokesman Sofiene Zaag told AFP that all but one of the casualties were police, after a strong explosion Monday rattled the main Avenue Habib Bourguiba in Tunis.

Ambulances arrived swiftly at the scene, which was cordoned off by security forces.

Since the 2011 uprising that toppled dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, jihadist attacks in Tunisia have killed dozens of members of the security forces and foreign tourists.

In June 2015, 38 people were killed in a shooting rampage at the coastal resort of Sousse which targeted tourists, while an attack the same year on the National Bardo Museum in Tunis left 22 people dead.

The terror attacks decimated Tunisia's crucial tourism sector, which made up seven per cent of gross domestic product.

The country has been under a state of emergency since November 2015, when an IS-claimed suicide bombing in Tunis killed 12 presidential guards.

The state of emergency was extended earlier this month until November 6, amid a tense political climate ahead of legislative and presidential elections planned for next year.

A woman suicide bomber blew herself up Monday near police vehicles in the centre of the Tunisian capital, injuring nine people, the interior ministry said. Ministry spokesman Sofiene Zaag told AFP that all but one of the casualties were police, after a strong explosion Monday rattled the main Avenue Habib Bourguiba in Tunis.

A woman suicide bomber blew herself up Monday near police vehicles in the centre of the Tunisian capital, injuring nine people, the interior ministry said. Ministry spokesman Sofiene Zaag told AFP that all but one of the casualties were police, after a strong explosion Monday rattled the main Avenue Habib Bourguiba in Tunis. Ambulances arrived swiftly at the scene, which was cordoned off by security forces. Since the 2011 uprising that toppled dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, jihadist attacks in Tunisia have killed dozens of members of the security forces and foreign tourists. In June 2015, 38 people were killed in a shooting rampage at the coastal resort of Sousse which targeted tourists, while an attack the same year on the National Bardo Museum in Tunis left 22 people dead. The terror attacks decimated Tunisia's crucial tourism sector, which made up seven per cent of gross domestic product. The country has been under a state of emergency since November 2015, when an IS-claimed suicide bombing in Tunis killed 12 presidential guards. The state of emergency was extended earlier this month until November 6, amid a tense political climate ahead of legislative and presidential elections planned for next year.

Tunisia: Woman suicide bomber blows herself up, nine wounded

Flash flooding in Tunisia has killed at least five people while a further two are unaccounted for, the interior ministry said on Thursday.

Two died in the Kef region in the northwest and another in Grombalia in the north, ministry spokesperson Sofiene Zaag told AFP.

On Wednesday a six-year-old child drowned in Sidi Bouzid in central Tunisia and a 40-year-old man was swept away by a seasonal river in the neighbouring province of Kasserine, the ministry said.

One person has been missing since Wednesday in Kasserine and another in Zaghouan in northeastern Tunisia, Zaag added.

The drownings come less than a month after torrential rains killed at least five people in the northeastern region of Cap Bon.

Water levels have risen in several cities, including Tunis and its outskirts, where most schools were closed on Thursday.

Some commuters parked their cars and took off their shoes as they navigated flooded routes to work in the capital.

Schools also remained closed in Kasserine, Sidi Bouzid and several other affected areas.

The interior ministry urged drivers to take care, as numerous roads across the country are impassable.

People have lashed out at the authorities for failing to maintain drainage systems or clear rubbish from seasonal riverbeds, despite frequent heavy rains in the autumn.

Flash flooding in Tunisia has killed at least five people while a further two are unaccounted for, the interior ministry said on Thursday. Two died in the Kef region in the northwest and another in Grombalia in the north, ministry spokesperson Sofiene Zaag told AFP.

Flash flooding in Tunisia has killed at least five people while a further two are unaccounted for, the interior ministry said on Thursday. Two died in the Kef region in the northwest and another in Grombalia in the north, ministry spokesperson Sofiene Zaag told AFP. On Wednesday a six-year-old child drowned in Sidi Bouzid in central Tunisia and a 40-year-old man was swept away by a seasonal river in the neighbouring province of Kasserine, the ministry said. One person has been missing since Wednesday in Kasserine and another in Zaghouan in northeastern Tunisia, Zaag added. The drownings come less than a month after torrential rains killed at least five people in the northeastern region of Cap Bon. Water levels have risen in several cities, including Tunis and its outskirts, where most schools were closed on Thursday. Some commuters parked their cars and took off their shoes as they navigated flooded routes to work in the capital. Schools also remained closed in Kasserine, Sidi Bouzid and several other affected areas. The interior ministry urged drivers to take care, as numerous roads across the country are impassable. People have lashed out at the authorities for failing to maintain drainage systems or clear rubbish from seasonal riverbeds, despite frequent heavy rains in the autumn.

Flash floods in Tunisia leave five dead, two missing

Tunisia's parliament has adopted a law criminalising racist speech, incitement to hatred and discrimination, in a vote hailed as a historic first in a country with a significant black minority.

The legislation was approved on Tuesday night after a lengthy debate with 125 members of parliament voting for it, one against and five abstaining.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/tunisia-announces-draft-bill-to-give-women-equal-inheritance-159003">Tunisia announces </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/tunisia-announces-draft-bill-to-give-women-equal-inheritance-159003">draft</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/tunisia-announces-draft-bill-to-give-women-equal-inheritance-159003"> bill to give women equal inheritance</a>

"This is a very important turning point in the history of Tunisia, equivalent to the abolition of slavery," said Messaoud Romdhani, head of the Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights.

Slavery was abolished in the North African country when it was a beylik, or vassal of the Ottoman empire, in 1846.

"It's a giant step, but there's still a lot of work to be done to make this law a reality in a society where there is racism against the 10 percent of black Tunisians and sub-Saharan Africans who suffer from insults and sometimes violent attacks," said Romdhani.

"It is a question of punishing but also of showing respect, especially through education."

Under the newly passed legislation, offenders can be jailed for one month and fined 1,000 dinars ($350, 300 euros) for using racist language.

Incitement to hatred, making racist threats, spreading and advocating racism, and belonging to an organisation that supports discrimination are punishable by one to three years in prison and can be fined up to 3,000 dinars.

"This is a historic moment for Tunisia," said the Tunisian Association for Minority Support, adding it would continue "the fight to ensure the proper implementation of the law."

Non-governmental organisations in Tunisia often report attacks on people singled out for the colour of their skin.

In August, an Ivorian woman was beaten after responding to insults, raising fears of more attacks on her community.

Tunisia's parliament has adopted a law criminalising racist speech, incitement to hatred and discrimination, in a vote hailed as a historic first in a country with a significant black minority.

Tunisia's parliament has adopted a law criminalising racist speech, incitement to hatred and discrimination, in a vote hailed as a historic first in a country with a significant black minority. The legislation was approved on Tuesday night after a lengthy debate with 125 members of parliament voting for it, one against and five abstaining. Also read: Tunisia announces draft bill to give women equal inheritance "This is a very important turning point in the history of Tunisia, equivalent to the abolition of slavery," said Messaoud Romdhani, head of the Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights. Slavery was abolished in the North African country when it was a beylik, or vassal of the Ottoman empire, in 1846. "It's a giant step, but there's still a lot of work to be done to make this law a reality in a society where there is racism against the 10 percent of black Tunisians and sub-Saharan Africans who suffer from insults and sometimes violent attacks," said Romdhani. "It is a question of punishing but also of showing respect, especially through education." Under the newly passed legislation, offenders can be jailed for one month and fined 1,000 dinars ($350, 300 euros) for using racist language. Incitement to hatred, making racist threats, spreading and advocating racism, and belonging to an organisation that supports discrimination are punishable by one to three years in prison and can be fined up to 3,000 dinars. "This is a historic moment for Tunisia," said the Tunisian Association for Minority Support, adding it would continue "the fight to ensure the proper implementation of the law." Non-governmental organisations in Tunisia often report attacks on people singled out for the colour of their skin. In August, an Ivorian woman was beaten after responding to insults, raising fears of more attacks on her community.

Tunisia parliament adopts anti-racism law

More than 50 migrants drowned in the Mediterranean&nbsp;on Sunday, the majority off the coasts of Tunisia and Turkey, while Italy marked a sea change in its policy.

Tunisian authorities said 48 bodies were recovered off the country's southern coast, close to the city of Sfax, while 68 people were rescued.

"The boat had a maximum capacity of 75 to 90 people, but there were more than 180 of us," said Wael Ferjani, a Tunisian survivor from the southern region of Gabes.

While water leaked into the boat, some passengers jumped into the sea and drowned, he told AFP.

The latest death toll was published around&nbsp;7:00 pm&nbsp;(1800 GMT), after the search and rescue operation had ended for the day.

The hunt for survivors would continue&nbsp;on Monday&nbsp;morning, Mohammed Salah Sagaama from Sfax's naval base told AFP.

Tunisians and migrants regularly try to cross the Mediterranean to seek a better future in Europe, with 120 mainly Tunisians rescued by their navy in March after trying to reach Italy.

In October, a collision between a migrant boat and a Tunisian military ship left at least 44 dead, in what Prime Minister Youssef Chahed called a "national disaster".

The latest shipwreck is the most deadly in the Mediterranean since&nbsp;February 2&nbsp;when 90 people drowned off the coast of Libya, according to the IOM.

Across the Mediterranean, nine Syrians including seven children drowned when their vessel sank off the coast of Turkey.

The group were travelling in a speedboat intending to head illegally to Europe when the boat hit trouble off the coast of the southern Antalya province, state media reports said.

The oldest child to drown was 14 and the youngest just three, according to the Anadolu news agency.

Six adults were reportedly rescued including a couple who lost five of their children in the disaster.

Turkey was the main sea route for migrants to Europe in 2015 when more than a million people crossed to Greece.

That year 3,771 people were recorded as dead or missing in the Mediterranean by the United Nations refugee agency.

So far this year, 32,601 migrants and refugees have survived the sea crossing and 649 have been recorded as dead or missing.

A deal struck with the EU in 2016 has drastically reduced the amount of people trying to make the sea crossing, although observers say the numbers have been ticking up again in recent months.

The focal point for Mediterranean migration in recent years has been Italy, where more than 700,000 migrants have arrived since 2013.

On Sunday&nbsp;the country's new hardline interior minister, Matteo Salvini, headed to Sicily, one of the main landing points for those rescued at sea, to push his anti-immigration agenda.

His predecessor signed a controversial deal with authorities and militias in Libya -- the key departure point on the route to Italy -- which has driven down overall arrival numbers by 75 per cent since last summer.

But Salvini has pledged to go further still, vowing to cut the number of arrivals and speed up deportations.

"The good times for illegals is over -- get ready to pack your bags," he said&nbsp;Saturday&nbsp;at a rally in Italy's north.

The latest arrivals, some 158 people, were rescued by a humanitarian boat and reached southern Sicily&nbsp;on Friday.

Meanwhile, Spanish maritime rescue units said&nbsp;Sunday&nbsp;they have picked up 240 migrants since the start of the weekend, with one person reported drowned.

Migration will be high on the agenda&nbsp;Tuesday&nbsp;when EU interior ministers meet in Luxembourg and discuss the bloc's contested Dublin rule, under which would-be refugees must file for asylum in the first member country they enter.

Many of those landing on the Mediterranean coast see their arrival point as a pathway to their final destination, but the Dublin rule and tightening border checks have meant migrants are increasingly stuck in southern Europe.

Tunisian authorities said 48 bodies were recovered off the country's southern coast, close to the city of Sfax, while 68 people were rescued

More than 50 migrants drowned in the Mediterranean on Sunday, the majority off the coasts of Tunisia and Turkey, while Italy marked a sea change in its policy. Tunisian authorities said 48 bodies were recovered off the country's southern coast, close to the city of Sfax, while 68 people were rescued. "The boat had a maximum capacity of 75 to 90 people, but there were more than 180 of us," said Wael Ferjani, a Tunisian survivor from the southern region of Gabes. While water leaked into the boat, some passengers jumped into the sea and drowned, he told AFP. The latest death toll was published around 7:00 pm (1800 GMT), after the search and rescue operation had ended for the day. The hunt for survivors would continue on Monday morning, Mohammed Salah Sagaama from Sfax's naval base told AFP. Tunisians and migrants regularly try to cross the Mediterranean to seek a better future in Europe, with 120 mainly Tunisians rescued by their navy in March after trying to reach Italy. In October, a collision between a migrant boat and a Tunisian military ship left at least 44 dead, in what Prime Minister Youssef Chahed called a "national disaster". The latest shipwreck is the most deadly in the Mediterranean since February 2 when 90 people drowned off the coast of Libya, according to the IOM. Across the Mediterranean, nine Syrians including seven children drowned when their vessel sank off the coast of Turkey. The group were travelling in a speedboat intending to head illegally to Europe when the boat hit trouble off the coast of the southern Antalya province, state media reports said. The oldest child to drown was 14 and the youngest just three, according to the Anadolu news agency. Six adults were reportedly rescued including a couple who lost five of their children in the disaster. Turkey was the main sea route for migrants to Europe in 2015 when more than a million people crossed to Greece. That year 3,771 people were recorded as dead or missing in the Mediterranean by the United Nations refugee agency. So far this year, 32,601 migrants and refugees have survived the sea crossing and 649 have been recorded as dead or missing. A deal struck with the EU in 2016 has drastically reduced the amount of people trying to make the sea crossing, although observers say the numbers have been ticking up again in recent months. The focal point for Mediterranean migration in recent years has been Italy, where more than 700,000 migrants have arrived since 2013. On Sunday the country's new hardline interior minister, Matteo Salvini, headed to Sicily, one of the main landing points for those rescued at sea, to push his anti-immigration agenda. His predecessor signed a controversial deal with authorities and militias in Libya -- the key departure point on the route to Italy -- which has driven down overall arrival numbers by 75 per cent since last summer. But Salvini has pledged to go further still, vowing to cut the number of arrivals and speed up deportations. "The good times for illegals is over -- get ready to pack your bags," he said Saturday at a rally in Italy's north. The latest arrivals, some 158 people, were rescued by a humanitarian boat and reached southern Sicily on Friday. Meanwhile, Spanish maritime rescue units said Sunday they have picked up 240 migrants since the start of the weekend, with one person reported drowned. Migration will be high on the agenda Tuesday when EU interior ministers meet in Luxembourg and discuss the bloc's contested Dublin rule, under which would-be refugees must file for asylum in the first member country they enter. Many of those landing on the Mediterranean coast see their arrival point as a pathway to their final destination, but the Dublin rule and tightening border checks have meant migrants are increasingly stuck in southern Europe.

More than 50 migrants die in Mediterranean crossings

The mega event hosted by Russia will be keenly followed by thousands of fans around the world

FIFA 2018: All you need to know about 21st edition of football World Cup

Hundreds of women took to the streets in the Tunisian capital on Saturday to demand equal inheritance rights as men, a subject often seen as taboo in the Arab world.

The North African Muslim country grants women more rights than other countries in the region, and since last year has allowed Muslim women to marry non-Muslim men.

But the protestors marching to the parliament building in Tunis on Saturday said they wanted to be compared with European women and to be entitled to the same inheritance rights.

Joined by some men, they carried slogans such as &quot;In a civil state I take exactly what you take&quot;, demanding an end to inheritance laws based on Islamic law. This usually grants men the double of what women get.

&quot;It is true that Tunisian women have more rights compared to other Arab women but we want to be compared with European women,&quot; said Kaouther Boulila, an activist.&nbsp;

&quot;We just want our rights.&quot;

In August, President Beji Caid Essbsi, a secular politician, set up a committee to draft proposals to advance women`s rights.

Tunisia has been hailed as the only &quot;Arab spring&quot; success story following political freedoms introduced after the ousting of autocrat Zine El Abidine Ben Ali in 2011.

Economic growth has been disappointing, however, with high unemployment driving many young Tunisians who had joined the uprising, abroad.

The protestors marching to the parliament building in Tunis on Saturday said they wanted to be compared with European women and to be entitled to the same inheritance rights

Hundreds of women took to the streets in the Tunisian capital on Saturday to demand equal inheritance rights as men, a subject often seen as taboo in the Arab world. The North African Muslim country grants women more rights than other countries in the region, and since last year has allowed Muslim women to marry non-Muslim men. But the protestors marching to the parliament building in Tunis on Saturday said they wanted to be compared with European women and to be entitled to the same inheritance rights. Joined by some men, they carried slogans such as "In a civil state I take exactly what you take", demanding an end to inheritance laws based on Islamic law. This usually grants men the double of what women get. "It is true that Tunisian women have more rights compared to other Arab women but we want to be compared with European women," said Kaouther Boulila, an activist. "We just want our rights." In August, President Beji Caid Essbsi, a secular politician, set up a committee to draft proposals to advance women`s rights. Tunisia has been hailed as the only "Arab spring" success story following political freedoms introduced after the ousting of autocrat Zine El Abidine Ben Ali in 2011. Economic growth has been disappointing, however, with high unemployment driving many young Tunisians who had joined the uprising, abroad.

Tunisian women march for equal inheritance rights

More than 200 people have been arrested and dozens of police hurt during clashes in Tunisia, the interior ministry said Wednesday, as anger over austerity measures spilt over into unrest.

The North African country has been hailed for its relatively smooth democratic transition since a 2011 revolt that sparked the Arab Spring uprisings, but seven years after the revolution, tensions over economic grievances are high.

Tunisia has seen rising anger over hikes in value-added tax and social contributions after a tough new budget was applied at the start of the year.

Interior ministry spokesman Khalifa Chibani told local radio that 49 police officers were wounded during the second night of clashes across the country Tuesday to Wednesday and that 206 &quot;troublemakers&quot; were arrested.

Properties were damaged, he said, including a branch of the Carrefour supermarket chain in a suburb of Tunis that was looted.

After a calm day on Wednesday, residents said demonstrators in the evening took to the streets of Tebourba, a town west of the capital Tunis where a man in his 40s died in unrest Monday night.

On a visit to a nearby town, Prime Minister Youssef Chahed condemned acts of &quot;vandalism&quot; that &quot;serve the interests of corrupt networks to weaken the state&quot;, pointing the finger at a leftist party that called for protests.

Fresh clashes broke out Wednesday night in the northern town of Siliana, where youths threw stones and molotov cocktails at security forces. Police responded with tear gas, an AFP correspondent said.

There were similar scenes in Kasserine, a town in Tunisia&#39;s neglected central region, with protesters burning tires to block roads and some throwing stones at police.

The army has been deployed around banks, post offices and other government buildings in the country&#39;s main cities, the defence ministry said.

There have been no figures given for the number of protesters injured in the clashes.

On Tuesday night, hundreds of young people took to the streets of Tebourba for the funeral of the man who died.

Police have insisted they did not kill him. Health Minister Imed Hammami said that results of an autopsy would be made public on Thursday.

Unrest was also reported in the working-class neighbourhoods of Djebel Lahmer and Zahrouni on the outskirts of Tunis, the central cities of Gafsa and Kasserine, and the northern town of Jedaida.

In the central town of Sidi Bouzid, the cradle of the protests that sparked the 2011 uprisings, youths blocked roads and hurled stones, and the police retaliated with tear gas, an AFP reporter said.

A representative of Tunisia&#39;s Jewish community said two Molotov cocktails were thrown at the entrance to two Talmudic schools on the Mediterranean island of Djerba, but their interiors were not damaged.

The recent unrest started with peaceful protests against the austerity measures last week but escalated into clashes with police in the night of Monday to Tuesday.

Activists have called for a massive demonstration on Friday against the austerity measures, which are expected to increase the cost of living.

They have demanded a revision of the legislation behind the VAT and social contribution hikes, as well as better welfare for struggling families.

&quot;There are acts of looting and robbery but also a political message from a section of the population that has nothing to lose and feels ignored&quot; seven years after a revolution demanding work and dignity, said political scientist Selim Kharrat.

He said that many public buildings have been targeted while the government has &quot;taken a pretty strong stance against the protesters&quot;.

Tunisia&#39;s economy has struggled since the 2011 revolution, which was fuelled by unemployment and graft.

Protests are common in the North African state in the month of January, when Tunisians mark the anniversary of the revolt that unseated dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali.

January 2016 saw the biggest wave of public discontent since the uprising as the death of an unemployed protester in Kasserine sparked days of unrest.

In December, unemployed protesters and activists marched through the streets of Sidi Bouzid, angry over the lack of jobs and opportunities that continue to plague residents.

In a report released Thursday, conflict analysts International Crisis Group (ICG) warned the country&#39;s political class against succumbing to &quot;authoritarian temptation&quot;.

While politicians had so far resisted the urge to backtrack on reforms, ICG said: &quot;in the context of an economic slump, the nostalgia for a strong state, like the one that the former regime claimed to defend, is spreading&quot;.

The revolution in Tunisia began in December 2010 after street vendor Mohamed Bouazizi set himself on fire and later died in a protest over unemployment and police harassment that spiralled into Ben Ali&#39;s overthrow.

After a calm day on Wednesday, residents said demonstrators in the evening took to the streets of Tebourba, a town west of the capital Tunis where a man in his 40s died in unrest Monday night

More than 200 people have been arrested and dozens of police hurt during clashes in Tunisia, the interior ministry said Wednesday, as anger over austerity measures spilt over into unrest. The North African country has been hailed for its relatively smooth democratic transition since a 2011 revolt that sparked the Arab Spring uprisings, but seven years after the revolution, tensions over economic grievances are high. Tunisia has seen rising anger over hikes in value-added tax and social contributions after a tough new budget was applied at the start of the year. Interior ministry spokesman Khalifa Chibani told local radio that 49 police officers were wounded during the second night of clashes across the country Tuesday to Wednesday and that 206 "troublemakers" were arrested. Properties were damaged, he said, including a branch of the Carrefour supermarket chain in a suburb of Tunis that was looted. After a calm day on Wednesday, residents said demonstrators in the evening took to the streets of Tebourba, a town west of the capital Tunis where a man in his 40s died in unrest Monday night. On a visit to a nearby town, Prime Minister Youssef Chahed condemned acts of "vandalism" that "serve the interests of corrupt networks to weaken the state", pointing the finger at a leftist party that called for protests. Fresh clashes broke out Wednesday night in the northern town of Siliana, where youths threw stones and molotov cocktails at security forces. Police responded with tear gas, an AFP correspondent said. There were similar scenes in Kasserine, a town in Tunisia's neglected central region, with protesters burning tires to block roads and some throwing stones at police. The army has been deployed around banks, post offices and other government buildings in the country's main cities, the defence ministry said. There have been no figures given for the number of protesters injured in the clashes. On Tuesday night, hundreds of young people took to the streets of Tebourba for the funeral of the man who died. Police have insisted they did not kill him. Health Minister Imed Hammami said that results of an autopsy would be made public on Thursday. Unrest was also reported in the working-class neighbourhoods of Djebel Lahmer and Zahrouni on the outskirts of Tunis, the central cities of Gafsa and Kasserine, and the northern town of Jedaida. In the central town of Sidi Bouzid, the cradle of the protests that sparked the 2011 uprisings, youths blocked roads and hurled stones, and the police retaliated with tear gas, an AFP reporter said. A representative of Tunisia's Jewish community said two Molotov cocktails were thrown at the entrance to two Talmudic schools on the Mediterranean island of Djerba, but their interiors were not damaged. The recent unrest started with peaceful protests against the austerity measures last week but escalated into clashes with police in the night of Monday to Tuesday. Activists have called for a massive demonstration on Friday against the austerity measures, which are expected to increase the cost of living. They have demanded a revision of the legislation behind the VAT and social contribution hikes, as well as better welfare for struggling families. "There are acts of looting and robbery but also a political message from a section of the population that has nothing to lose and feels ignored" seven years after a revolution demanding work and dignity, said political scientist Selim Kharrat. He said that many public buildings have been targeted while the government has "taken a pretty strong stance against the protesters". Tunisia's economy has struggled since the 2011 revolution, which was fuelled by unemployment and graft. Protests are common in the North African state in the month of January, when Tunisians mark the anniversary of the revolt that unseated dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. January 2016 saw the biggest wave of public discontent since the uprising as the death of an unemployed protester in Kasserine sparked days of unrest. In December, unemployed protesters and activists marched through the streets of Sidi Bouzid, angry over the lack of jobs and opportunities that continue to plague residents. In a report released Thursday, conflict analysts International Crisis Group (ICG) warned the country's political class against succumbing to "authoritarian temptation". While politicians had so far resisted the urge to backtrack on reforms, ICG said: "in the context of an economic slump, the nostalgia for a strong state, like the one that the former regime claimed to defend, is spreading". The revolution in Tunisia began in December 2010 after street vendor Mohamed Bouazizi set himself on fire and later died in a protest over unemployment and police harassment that spiralled into Ben Ali's overthrow.

200 arrested, dozens hurt in Tunisia unrest

Tunisia on Sunday suspended Emirates Airlines flights after a public outcry over security measures in the United Arab Emirates targeting women from the North African country.

The transport ministry said it had &quot;decided to suspend&quot; Emirates flights to Tunis &quot;until the airline is able to find the appropriate solution to operate its flights in accordance with international law and agreements&quot;.

An Emirates Airlines spokesperson confirmed to AFP: &quot;Emirates will stop services between Tunis and Dubai, as instructed by the Tunisian authorities, with effect from December 25, 2017.&quot;&nbsp;

A number of Tunisian women had said their travel to the Gulf state on UAE airlines had been delayed and some had been forced to undergo additional examination of their visas.

That triggered angry reactions on social media and media outlets in Tunisia.

The United Arab Emirates said Sunday that &quot;security information&quot; had caused the delays.

&quot;We contacted our Tunisian brothers about security information that necessitated taking specific procedures,&quot; UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Anwar Gargash said on Twitter.

&quot;We should avoid misleading attempts... We highly value Tunisian women and respect them,&quot; he said, without elaborating.

The Tunisian government said Friday it had asked the UAE ambassador for clarification, adding the envoy said the decision was for only a short period and the restrictions had been lifted.

Despite the clarification, Tunisian rights groups issued a statement on Saturday condemning the UAE measures as &quot;discriminatory and racist&quot;.

Tunisia has been trying to repair diplomatic ties with the UAE damaged by its 2011 revolution and after the Islamic party Al-Nahda, which has strong links with Qatar, came to power in the North African country.

Relations between Qatar on the one hand and Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain and Egypt on the other have been severed since June after the four Arab countries accused Doha of backing &quot;terror&quot; groups in the region, a charge denied by Qatar.

A number of Tunisian women had said their travel to the Gulf state on UAE airlines had been delayed and some had been forced to undergo additional examination of their visas

Tunisia on Sunday suspended Emirates Airlines flights after a public outcry over security measures in the United Arab Emirates targeting women from the North African country. The transport ministry said it had "decided to suspend" Emirates flights to Tunis "until the airline is able to find the appropriate solution to operate its flights in accordance with international law and agreements". An Emirates Airlines spokesperson confirmed to AFP: "Emirates will stop services between Tunis and Dubai, as instructed by the Tunisian authorities, with effect from December 25, 2017." A number of Tunisian women had said their travel to the Gulf state on UAE airlines had been delayed and some had been forced to undergo additional examination of their visas. That triggered angry reactions on social media and media outlets in Tunisia. The United Arab Emirates said Sunday that "security information" had caused the delays. "We contacted our Tunisian brothers about security information that necessitated taking specific procedures," UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Anwar Gargash said on Twitter. "We should avoid misleading attempts... We highly value Tunisian women and respect them," he said, without elaborating. The Tunisian government said Friday it had asked the UAE ambassador for clarification, adding the envoy said the decision was for only a short period and the restrictions had been lifted. Despite the clarification, Tunisian rights groups issued a statement on Saturday condemning the UAE measures as "discriminatory and racist". Tunisia has been trying to repair diplomatic ties with the UAE damaged by its 2011 revolution and after the Islamic party Al-Nahda, which has strong links with Qatar, came to power in the North African country. Relations between Qatar on the one hand and Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain and Egypt on the other have been severed since June after the four Arab countries accused Doha of backing "terror" groups in the region, a charge denied by Qatar.

Tunisia suspends Emirates flights after outcry over women security measures

An online radio station catering for the LGBT community, believed to be the first of its kind in the Arab world, started broadcasting in Tunisia on Monday.

The outlet -- set up by LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) rights group Shams -- aims to tackle deep-rooted hostility in the North African state, where homosexuality is officially illegal.

The slogan of Shams Rad station is &quot;dignity, equality&quot; and its presenters include prominent activists, but those behind it have still reported receiving threats.

It intends &quot;to sensitise the people of Tunisia, ordinary citizens and political decision makers about homophobia in society and to defend individual liberties,&quot; said director general Bouhdid Belhadi.

The station is meant to be on air daily from breakfast time to midnight and will broadcast programmes on political, economic and social issues, with a focus on the LGBT community.

&quot;We are going to touch, through the subjects we treat, everyone living on Tunisian soil,&quot; Belhadi said.

&quot;Our editorial policy is to talk about rights and individual freedoms in general, but the focus will be on the LGBT community.&quot;

Among the programmes, for example, is one that will feature stories about the daily lives of LGBT people.

Gay rights activists have emerged from the shadows in Tunisia since the revolution in 2011, but their position remains precarious in Tunisia`s conservative Muslim society.

Article 230 of the penal code includes a punishment of up to three years in prison for homosexuality and young men are regularly detained and prosecuted.

While activists have welcomed the launch of the radio station, it has drawn some hostile reactions on social networks and from other media.

Belhadi reported receiving more than 4,000 insults and threats online, including death threats.

The station is meant to be on air daily from breakfast time to midnight

An online radio station catering for the LGBT community, believed to be the first of its kind in the Arab world, started broadcasting in Tunisia on Monday. The outlet -- set up by LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) rights group Shams -- aims to tackle deep-rooted hostility in the North African state, where homosexuality is officially illegal. The slogan of Shams Rad station is "dignity, equality" and its presenters include prominent activists, but those behind it have still reported receiving threats. It intends "to sensitise the people of Tunisia, ordinary citizens and political decision makers about homophobia in society and to defend individual liberties," said director general Bouhdid Belhadi. The station is meant to be on air daily from breakfast time to midnight and will broadcast programmes on political, economic and social issues, with a focus on the LGBT community. "We are going to touch, through the subjects we treat, everyone living on Tunisian soil," Belhadi said. "Our editorial policy is to talk about rights and individual freedoms in general, but the focus will be on the LGBT community." Among the programmes, for example, is one that will feature stories about the daily lives of LGBT people. Gay rights activists have emerged from the shadows in Tunisia since the revolution in 2011, but their position remains precarious in Tunisia`s conservative Muslim society. Article 230 of the penal code includes a punishment of up to three years in prison for homosexuality and young men are regularly detained and prosecuted. While activists have welcomed the launch of the radio station, it has drawn some hostile reactions on social networks and from other media. Belhadi reported receiving more than 4,000 insults and threats online, including death threats.

LGBT radio goes online in Tunisia despite threats

A suspected terrorist was arrested in Tunisia after he allegedly wounded two policemen in a knife attack.

The attack occurred near the parliament building in Tunis.

Tunisia&#39;s interior ministry confirmed the incident, informing, &quot;A Salafist attacked two policemen with a knife. One was struck on the forehead and the other stabbed in the neck and is in intensive care.&quot;

The assailant&nbsp;has been arrested, the ministry added.

One policeman was taken to hospital after being stabbed&nbsp;in the neck.

One policeman was taken to hospital after being hit on the neck.

A suspected terrorist was arrested in Tunisia after he allegedly wounded two policemen in a knife attack. The attack occurred near the parliament building in Tunis. Tunisia's interior ministry confirmed the incident, informing, "A Salafist attacked two policemen with a knife. One was struck on the forehead and the other stabbed in the neck and is in intensive care." The assailant has been arrested, the ministry added. One policeman was taken to hospital after being stabbed in the neck.

Knife attack on 2 policemen near parliament in Tunisia

India has had an uneasy relationship with&nbsp;the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), but Tunisian foreign minister Khemaies Jhinaoui&rsquo;s latest statement might soon change that.

Unlike other OIC members like Turkey,&nbsp;which advocates multilateral dialogue between India and Pakistan over Jammu and Kashmir,&nbsp;Tunisia says the issue is best resolved bilaterally.

&ldquo;We would like to see India and Pakistan sit together and amicably&nbsp;solve through negotiation. We don&#39;t like to interfere in the domestic affairs of both countries,&rdquo; Jhinaoui told exclusively to WION.

Tunisia is a member of the 57-nation OIC, so the minister&#39;s statement would&nbsp;come as a shot in the arm for India.

In July, the OIC had adopted a resolution during a foreign ministers&rsquo; meeting in West African city of Abidjan that the unresolved Kashmir issue was posing a threat to the peace and security of the region.

The Indian government&nbsp;had reacted strongly to that resolution.&nbsp;&ldquo;India notes with utmost regret...&nbsp;factually incorrect and misleading references to matters internal to India, including the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, which is an integral part of India.&nbsp;India out rightly rejects all such references.&nbsp;The OIC has no locus standi on India&rsquo;s internal affairs.&nbsp;We strongly advise the OIC to refrain from making such references in future,&rdquo; the Ministry of External Affiars said in a rejoinder.

Tunisia&#39;s stand is in contrast to Turkey&#39;s. In an interview to WION earlier, Turkey&rsquo;s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had favoured a multilateral dialogue to resolve the&nbsp;Kashmir issue.

He&nbsp;had hinted at mediation by Turkey too.

But&nbsp;India has consistently called for&nbsp;a comprehensive bilateral dialogue with Pakistan, insisting that&nbsp;there is no room for&nbsp;a third-party role. Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj has said that talks and terror cannot go hand in hand.

Jhinaoui, who met Swaraj on Monday, too echoed similar sentiments. &ldquo;We discussed possibility of... together fighting&nbsp;terrorism, which is a common threat to humanity... we&nbsp;decided to have more contacts for exchange of information and to have the right tools to fight terror,&rdquo; Jhinaoui said about the meeting.

He also said Tunisia is proof that&nbsp;Islam is&nbsp;not antithetical to democracy and that should interest&nbsp;Pakistan.

India has had an uneasy relationship with?the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), but Tunisian foreign minister Khemaies Jhinaoui?s latest statement might soon change that.

India has had an uneasy relationship with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), but Tunisian foreign minister Khemaies Jhinaoui’s latest statement might soon change that. Unlike other OIC members like Turkey, which advocates multilateral dialogue between India and Pakistan over Jammu and Kashmir, Tunisia says the issue is best resolved bilaterally. “We would like to see India and Pakistan sit together and amicably solve through negotiation. We don't like to interfere in the domestic affairs of both countries,” Jhinaoui told exclusively to WION. Tunisia is a member of the 57-nation OIC, so the minister's statement would come as a shot in the arm for India. In July, the OIC had adopted a resolution during a foreign ministers’ meeting in West African city of Abidjan that the unresolved Kashmir issue was posing a threat to the peace and security of the region. The Indian government had reacted strongly to that resolution. “India notes with utmost regret... factually incorrect and misleading references to matters internal to India, including the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, which is an integral part of India. India out rightly rejects all such references. The OIC has no locus standi on India’s internal affairs. We strongly advise the OIC to refrain from making such references in future,” the Ministry of External Affiars said in a rejoinder. Tunisia's stand is in contrast to Turkey's. In an interview to WION earlier, Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had favoured a multilateral dialogue to resolve the Kashmir issue. He had hinted at mediation by Turkey too. But India has consistently called for a comprehensive bilateral dialogue with Pakistan, insisting that there is no room for a third-party role. Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj has said that talks and terror cannot go hand in hand. Jhinaoui, who met Swaraj on Monday, too echoed similar sentiments. “We discussed possibility of... together fighting terrorism, which is a common threat to humanity... we decided to have more contacts for exchange of information and to have the right tools to fight terror,” Jhinaoui said about the meeting. He also said Tunisia is proof that Islam is not antithetical to democracy and that should interest Pakistan.

India and Pakistan should amicably solve Kashmir issue: Tunisia

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/himachal-pradesh-polls-bjp-announces-prem-kumar-dhumal-as-partys-chief-ministerial-candidate-23225">Himachal polls: Prem Kumar Dhumal is BJP&#39;s chief ministerial candidate</a>

BJP chief Amit Shah made the announcement at a rally on Tuesday.&nbsp;The polling&nbsp;in Himachal Pradesh will take place on November 9.&nbsp;The BJP is hopeful of getting a clear majority and defeating the incumbent Congress government in the hill state.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-and-pakistan-should-amicably-solve-kashmir-issue-tunisia-23234">India and Pakistan should amicably solve Kashmir issue: Tunisia</a>

India has had an uneasy relationship with&nbsp;the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), but Tunisian foreign minister Khemaies Jhinaoui&rsquo;s latest statement might soon change that.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-planning-1000km-tunnel-to-divert-brahmaputra-water-from-tibet-to-xinjiang-23192">China planning 1,000km tunnel to divert Brahmaputra water from Tibet to Xinjiang</a>

The move, that is expected to &ldquo;turn Xinjiang into California&rdquo;, has raised concerns among environmentalists about its likely impact on the Himalayan region.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/high-court-asks-navy-to-consider-transgender-for-alternate-job-23204">Delhi High Court asks Navy to consider transgender for alternate job</a>

&quot;You can punish her for indiscipline, but at the same time, you can accommodate her,&quot; the court stold the Navy. The Navy has removed sailor Manish Giri (now named Sabi)&nbsp;after a sex change operation citing disciplinary issues.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/international-academy-rescinds-spaceys-upcoming-emmy-honour-23188">Kevin Spacey&#39;s upcoming Emmy honour rescinded</a>

The International Academy of Television Arts and Sciences has announced that Kevin Spacey will not receive the Emmy award, which was scheduled to be conferred on the actor this year in wake of the sexual allegations against him by Anthony Rapp.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/four-rohingya-drown-as-refugee-boat-capsizes-off-bangladesh-23209">Rohingyas drown as refugee boat capsizes off Bangladesh</a>

People living in the coastal strip south of the Bangladesh port of Cox Bazar&nbsp;fished 37 survivors out of the water and 11 have been admitted to hospital in a critical condition.

Missed the big stories of the day? Fret not, here is a round up of all the big news events from around the world.

Himachal polls: Prem Kumar Dhumal is BJP's chief ministerial candidate BJP chief Amit Shah made the announcement at a rally on Tuesday. The polling in Himachal Pradesh will take place on November 9. The BJP is hopeful of getting a clear majority and defeating the incumbent Congress government in the hill state. India and Pakistan should amicably solve Kashmir issue: Tunisia India has had an uneasy relationship with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), but Tunisian foreign minister Khemaies Jhinaoui’s latest statement might soon change that. China planning 1,000km tunnel to divert Brahmaputra water from Tibet to Xinjiang The move, that is expected to “turn Xinjiang into California”, has raised concerns among environmentalists about its likely impact on the Himalayan region. Delhi High Court asks Navy to consider transgender for alternate job "You can punish her for indiscipline, but at the same time, you can accommodate her," the court stold the Navy. The Navy has removed sailor Manish Giri (now named Sabi) after a sex change operation citing disciplinary issues. Kevin Spacey's upcoming Emmy honour rescinded The International Academy of Television Arts and Sciences has announced that Kevin Spacey will not receive the Emmy award, which was scheduled to be conferred on the actor this year in wake of the sexual allegations against him by Anthony Rapp. Rohingyas drown as refugee boat capsizes off Bangladesh People living in the coastal strip south of the Bangladesh port of Cox Bazar fished 37 survivors out of the water and 11 have been admitted to hospital in a critical condition.

WION Evening News Brief, October 31

A Tunisian court allowed a pregnant 13-year-old girl to marry her 20-year-old brother-in-law, who has been accused of raping her, causing a massive backlash in the African nation.

According to Tunisia&#39;s Article 227, if a man has raped a girl under the age of 15, he faces six years&#39;of punishment but can get away with it if he agrees to marry her.

The court decision comes despite tireless efforts of child rights activists, British newspaper Metro reported.

Several protesters camped outside the court to protest the decision and held aloft placards, one of which read: &quot;How I met your mother. I raped her when she was 13.&quot;

&quot;The judge was simply abiding the law, which is definitely an antiquated law,&quot; a fellow court judge, who did not want to be named because they are not authorized to speak with media, told CNN.

The ministry of Women&#39;s Affairs, Family and Children in Tunisia said it was deeply concerned and urged the parliament to amend the law that allows alleged rapists to go scot-free.

A bill to counter violence against of women was tabled in 2014 but things have moved slowly since then.

(WION)

The 13-year-old teenager was allegedly raped by her brother-in-law but has been allowed to marry under 'antiquated' Article 227

A Tunisian court allowed a pregnant 13-year-old girl to marry her 20-year-old brother-in-law, who has been accused of raping her, causing a massive backlash in the African nation. According to Tunisia's Article 227, if a man has raped a girl under the age of 15, he faces six years'of punishment but can get away with it if he agrees to marry her. The court decision comes despite tireless efforts of child rights activists, British newspaper Metro reported. Several protesters camped outside the court to protest the decision and held aloft placards, one of which read: "How I met your mother. I raped her when she was 13." "The judge was simply abiding the law, which is definitely an antiquated law," a fellow court judge, who did not want to be named because they are not authorized to speak with media, told CNN. The ministry of Women's Affairs, Family and Children in Tunisia said it was deeply concerned and urged the parliament to amend the law that allows alleged rapists to go scot-free. A bill to counter violence against of women was tabled in 2014 but things have moved slowly since then. (WION)

Tunisia: Court sanctions 'rapist' relative to marry pregnant teenager

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