Voting Election begins in South Africa

Polls have opened in South Africa’s fifth general election since the end of apartheid 20 years ago.

The governing African National Congress is tipped to win, returning President Jacob Zuma for a second five-year term.

However, it is expected to lose ground amid concern over high unemployment and a number of corruption scandals.

The run-up to the vote has been marked by protests and troops have been deployed to boost security.

Wednesday’s election is the first time that those born after the end of apartheid are able to take part and commentators say much will depend on how they cast their ballots.

Polls show many are disaffected with the country’s leadership and are willing to support the opposition Democratic Alliance, led by anti-apartheid activist Helen Zille, or the Economic Freedom Fighters, headed by former ANC youth leader Julius Malema.

The ANC’s campaign has drawn heavily on past glories and on the outpouring of grief over the death of its former leader, Nelson Mandela.

“Do it for Madiba, Vote ANC!” campaign posters read, referring to Mr Mandela by his clan name.

But many commentators say this election could be the last to be dominated by South Africa’s post-apartheid legacy.

About a quarter of South Africa’s workforce is jobless and a BBC poll suggests unemployment is the major issue among young voters, followed by education.

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