Tunis (ANTARA News/AFP) - Tunisian President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali quit after 23 years in power and left the country on Friday, Prime Minister Mohammed Ghannouchi announced, saying he had taken over in the interim.

Ghannouchi called on Tunisians to unite after weeks of protests and said he would respect the constitution.

"I call on Tunisians of all political persuasions and from all regions to demonstrate patriotism and unity," he said solemnly on state television.

Ben Ali fled amid mounting demands for him to step down despite announcing late Thursday that he would not seek another term after 2014.

It was not clear where he was headed. (*)

Editor: Kunto Wibisono
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