Protests erupt after Tunisian journalist sets himself on fire

Protests have erupted in Tunisia after a journalist set himself on fire in defiance of the poor living conditions and economic hardship the nation is experiencing. 

Abderrazak Zorgui posted an online video expressing his disappointment at unemployment rates in the country, and the unfulfilled promises of Tunisia’s 2011 Arab Spring revolution. 

"For the sons of Kasserine who have no means of subsistence, today I start a revolution. I am going to set myself on fire," Zorgui said in the video published before his death.

Protests were held in Kasserine on Monday, with protesters clashing with police. 

Reports have emerged of tear gas being used to disperse crowds blocking the main streets, with stones and flaming tyres thrown back at the police. 

Protests were also held on Tuesday night. 

Interior ministry spokesperson Sofiane Zaag said on Tuesday that six police officers were injured and several people arrested in the protest.

The self-immolation mirrors that of Mohamed Bouazizi in 2010, a street vendor who had protested against unemployment, corruption and repression, leading to nationwide protests which brought down former authoritarian president Zine El Abidine Ben Ali in 2011.