ALERT NET: TUNIS – The sudden exit of ousted Tunisian leader Ben Ali and his family in a popular revolt has left a big hole in the life of the affluent suburbs of the capital that were once their playground.
The ruling clan of the North African country of 10 million were regular fixtures in the social scene of Gammarth, Marsa and Carthage districts where they maintained houses and had extensive business interests.
Many people were still afraid to talk openly about a clique referred to for years in whispers as simply "The Family".
Employees of empty hotels, restaurants and bars -- many owned by members of his clan -- said they hoped business would survive the upheaval. The country has been under curfew over the past week and tour operators have pulled out foreigners.
"We don't know the fate of these places," said a man who worked at a bar owned by a member of Ben Ali's wife's family. "We don't know what will happen with ownership. We're still working and we just come to work every day."
A palace often used by Ben Ali -- who fled to Saudi Arabia with family last week after unprecedented popular protests against poverty, corruption and political repression -- stood deserted on a hill over looking the Mediterranean. >>> Andrew Hammond / Source: Reuters | Wednesday, January 19, 2011
