With songs and speeches, South Africa commemorates 20 years since vote that ended apartheid

JOHANNESBURG – South Africans are celebrating 20 years of democracy with songs and speeches, but some note that economic inequality and other problems have undermined their nation's promise since the first all-race elections on April 27, 1994 ended white rule.

The focus of commemorations on Sunday is in Pretoria at the Union Buildings, the government offices where President Jacob Zuma and dignitaries, including foreign diplomats, are gathering to reflect on the long struggle against apartheid and ensuing efforts to build a better country.

The official holiday, Freedom Day, comes ahead of elections on May 7 that are likely to see the ruling African National Congress return to power with a smaller majority, reflecting growing discontent with the movement that led opposition to white domination before taking over leadership of South Africa.