The Union of Private Entrepreneurs in Kyiv protested this morning and arranged a picket near the Kyiv city state administration. About two hundred demonstrators denounced the city administration's decision to restrict trade on the territory of the underground beginning from 1st May 2005.

The local merchants do not agree with the decision to restrict trade during the Eurovision Song Contest period. Trade will be forbidden in and around the underground stations in Kyiv as of 1st May, a measure to prevent the trade of unofficial Eurovision Song Contest products and souvenirs. A special governmental agency will be responsible for confiscating illegal products and opening criminal cases.

The local merchants now suggest holding a referendum on distrust to the mayor of Kyiv, Alexander Omelchenko. Furthermore they threaten with protest actions during the Eurovision Song Contest if nothing changes.