'Rainbow nation' marks 20th year of democracy

JOHANNESBURG (AP):"How can you describe falling in love?"

That is how retired archbishop Desmond Tutu, this week, recalled voting in South Africa's first all-race elections on April 27, 1994, an exultant moment when the nation's majority blacks and other oppressed groups broke the shackles of white rule.

But as South Africa marks the 20th anniversary of multiracial democracy on today, the achievements and soaring expectations of what was dubbed a 'rainbow nation' have been tempered by a different inequality - the yawning gulf between rich and poor.

This uneven narrative will shape elections on May 7 likely to see the ruling African National Congress - which led the fight against apartheid and has dominated politics since its demise - return to power with a smaller majority, reflecting a growing discontent with the party.

Despite notable gaps in service, South Africa has delivered housing, water and electricity to millions since 1994 and boasts a widely admired constitution and an active civil society, but struggles with high unemployment, one of the world's highest rates of violent crime and is still working through issues of race and identity.

"It's nice to celebrate that we are here," said Gundo Mmbi, a student at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg. But she said the 20th anniversary of democracy is also a time to reflect on the need for change in South Africa, citing "really crazy" corruption and a lack of opportunity for the poor.

"It's not just about your colour anymore," she said "Discrimination has gone beyond."