Kiev, December 8: Despite the slush and rain of Ukrainian sullen December, the streets of Kiev were brimming with joy as the country’s Parliament approved changes meant to eliminate electoral fraud. Orange crowds, who rose to protest against unfair elections, cheered December 8th anticipating the end of street rallies and exhausting blockades of government buildings. Millions of Ukrainian homes watched the meeting that marked the end of 17-day protests on pro-opposition Channel 5, while some watched it on TV screens of cozy Kiev pubs – semi-empty on the final day of the all-country strike.

“During these 17 days, we have built a new country,” Yuschenko told the cheering crowd. “We have realized that we are a European nation.”

“I wonder if this day ever becomes a national holiday,” – said Olga, 24, who intends to continue wearing orange ribbon tied over her purse until the presidential candidate she supports wins. When asked if she plans to use her orange scarf the rest of winter she says: “Definitely: to make my political statement. And besides,” she adds playfully, - “it matches my shoelaces.”

Although some Kiev’s companies (like UMC) banned the use of their corporate logos alongside anything orange to state their political impartiality, many of Ukrainian office workers are allowed to keep orange flags at their workplaces.

“It’s to remind me that I once witnessed a truly historical event,” says Taras, 32.

Thousands of Yuschenko supporters will now leave Kiev’s Independence square and prepare for the new elections which will put their leader against Prime-Minister Viktor Yanukovich again. The tents are still up on Kiev’s main street Kreschatik. For those who camped out there the strike is not over until the results of next election are announced.

Read also: New Counrty For Ukrainians (by RealEstateGates.com)