The Tunisian President has fled the country following days of violent protests. Prime Minister Mohammed Ghannouchi says he has taken over as interim president. Saudi Arabia confirmed that the Tunisian leader Zine El Abidine Ben Ali and his family have arrived in the kingdom. Ben Ali was Tunisia's President for 23 years. He left the country after massive protests over unemployment and high food prices and growing unrest left at least 23 people dead. The violence was sparked by the suicide of a university graduate who set himself on fire after police confiscated produce.Before leaving Tunis, Ben Ali dismissed his Government and declared a state of emergency. Public gatherings have been banned and security forces have been authorised to shoot rioters. The military has sealed off the airport and closed Tunisian airspace a short while ago.Thousands of people took part in anti-government protests in Jordan as events in Tunisia dominated Arab news network. Campaigners and activists across the Arab world used social networking sites and the media to congratulate the Tunisian people. However, there has been no comment from the Arab Governments.