UN urges peaceful response amid Venezuela election controversy

The United Nations says it is extremely concerned about widespread protests and arrests in Venezuela. Protests erupted as anger grew over the awarding of Sunday’s election to President Nicolas Maduro despite claims by the opposition that it had won. On Monday, the election board declared that Maduro had won a third term with 51% of votes. The Secretary General’s spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric says that all political leaders should reject violence.

The BBC meanwhile reports that thousands gathered in the city center to show their opposition to President Nicolás Maduro’s claim of victory. Many said they would not stop until there was a new government, and some said this would only be achieved if the security forces joined opposition protesters. However, the military and police have so far remained loyal to Maduro and have fired tear gas and rubber bullets at some protesters.