South Africa to mark 30 years of freedom amid inequality, poverty and a tense election ahead

By MOGOMOTSI MAGOME
Associated Press

JOHANNESBURG (AP) — South Africa this week celebrates 30 years of freedom after a historic 1994 election that saw the end of white minority rule and racial segregation. However, much of the enthusiasm and optimism that characterized that historic day has subsided as Africa’s most developed economy faces a myriad of challenges, including widening inequality and high levels of poverty among the country’s Black majority. These challenges come as the country braces for what is expected to be one of its most fiercely contested elections next month. For the first time since the African National Congress came into power in 1994, polls are indicating that the party might receive less than 50% of the national vote.