Many optimistic despite Mandela’s passing

Many optimistic despite Mandela’s passing

PRETORIA, South Africa (AP) — Nelson Mandela is gone, but many mourners waiting patiently for a chance to see Mandela for a last time today said they retain high hopes about South Africa’s future. If the heady optimism of the days when South Africa’s peaceful transformation to an all-race democracy in the 1994 elections has been diminished by time and economic challenges, many still believe the years ahead can be fruitful, with growing opportunity. Still, there is fear that Mandela’s passing might open a door to unrest, clashes and possibly worse. And there are serious concerns about youth unemployment, crime and persistent poverty.