Halya Coynash: Winners and losers from compliance with ’hostage law’

 The danger of ‘Maidan fatigue’ and mounting repression  probably prompted the moves this weekend  by Maidan and political opposition leaders to comply with the much criticized Jan 29 ‘hostage law’.  The law offered to drop charges against protesters in exchange for other protesters vacating all government buildings and freeing up the streets.  While a way out of impasse was undoubtedly needed, there was clearly no united front on the issue.  Many remain concerned that the ‘hostage trick’ has effectively worked, resulting in the focus being distorted and total impunity for officials accepted.  Although the Prosecutor General’s website has posted confirmation that the law will come into force on Monday, there are also serious doubts as to its scope.