"Errors of the authorities and politicians shall not cast doubt on the role of Maidan as a social phenomenon in the modern history of Ukraine", - Mykola Tomenko, Vice-Chairman of The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, stated on the eve of the fifth anniversary of revolution in the Independence Square.
M.Tomenko stressed that Maidan fulfilled several vitally important functions in 2004. "Firstly, it is a social function. Maidan has proved that people can bear influence not only on the political decisions, but also on the development of history", - he stated.
"The second function is geopolitical. The world has learned more information about Ukraine during the Orange revolution, than for the previous years of independence. This information was positive, since the world has discovered a country with ancient history and democratic traditions", - M.Tomenko believes.
"A world-view function should also be mentioned. Maidan demonstrated that values of freedom, respect for each other and for one´s country, protection of one´s dignity are the national values in Ukraine. Ukrainian nation asserted itself in Maidan", - M.Tomenko stressed.
M.Tomenko believes that Maidan shall be protected from politics and politicians on the eve of its fifth anniversary, as "it belongs to the entire Ukrainian nation, not separate politicians or parties. Presidents, governments and parliaments will change, but Maidan will remain forever in the Ukrainian history".
As far as the possibility of restoring Maidan is concerned, M.Tomenko stated: "Small and large rallies can be held in the Independence Square in Kyiv, but Maidan will always be a special one".