The Growing Uprising

The historic district of Tunis is undoubtedly beautiful.

 
While I was busy taking photos, a car stopped and two people alighted to approach two Europeans who were filming with a large camera. They asked for proof of permission to film in public places, and discussions ensued while I headed toward my hostel.
 
On the road, I asked a passerby for directions and he was about to answer when another young and relaxed-looking man appeared from behind him. The young man stared at the passerby from whom I sought directions, and with knowing looks, it seemed that the passerby understood something I did not and continued along. I then found myself alone with this young man, who casually proposed to accompany me onto my destination. On the way to my hostel, he asked what I did in life, if I liked football, what I thought of Tunisia and Ibn Khaldun (historian, philosopher, diplomat and politician in 1332 - 1406), whose statue stood erected on the central square of Tunis. In his opinion, it was a symbol of criticism of the authoritarian governments around the world. Annoyed by his questions, I responded that I was just a tourist who do not debate on politics during travels, and that he shouldn’t worry about me or what I thought. Amazed, he looked at me and told me that it was better that way.
 
I had the same experience of being followed on the streets by undercover police officers, who were young and 3 times more casual than the young man I encountered previously. Each time they asked same questions. Other backpackers I met reported similar experiences as long as they don’t travel with a tour group. I felt freer in Libya than in Tunisia ironically.

Naturally, the frustration of Tunisians and the events that followed a year later did not surprise me.