UN urges 'urgent' de-escalation of Bolivia violence

• The United Nations on Tuesday called for an urgent de-escalation of tensions in Bolivia.
• The UN office in La Paz said in a statement that it was making a "resounding and urgent".
• Riots broke out after the controversial October 20 election won by Morales but described by Mesa.

LA PAZ: The United Nations on Tuesday called for an urgent de-escalation of tensions in Bolivia, where rival supporters of President Evo Morales and opposition leader Carlos Mesa have clashed since a disputed election.

The UN office in La Paz said in a statement that it was making a "resounding and urgent" call on politicians, social leaders and all Bolivians "to reduce tensions and reject all acts of violence."

Riots broke out after the controversial October 20 election won by Morales but described by Mesa as a "fraud," as rival supporters clashed with each other and security forces.