You're reading: Klitschko overturns decision to strip Moscow Patriarchate of tax break

The mayor of Kyiv, Vitali Klitschko, has signed a draft decision by Kyiv City Council to cancel a provision to end a property tax concession for the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (of Moscow Patriarchate).

“The decision by Kyiv City Council to end a property tax concession for one of churches is unconstitutional and will be reviewed. There can be no privileges based on religion,” Klitschko was quoted as saying by the city hall’s spokesperson on Jan. 29.

On Jan. 28 Kyiv City council removed the Ukrainian Orthodox Church from the list of religious organizations granted a concession on the land tax. Klitschko demanded reversal of this decision and announced his intention to file comments on the decision within five days, following which it will be reviewed.