YUSCHENKO TO SET UP NATIONAL COUNCIL TO PROTECT CONSTITUTION

KIEV, November 23 (RIA Novosti) - "We shall establish a National Rada [Council] to protect the Constitution. It will start to consolidate all governing structures," Victor Yuschenko, presidential candidate for the opposition, said to his supporters as they had rallied in Independence Square, Kiev's central. He appeared there shortly after he took a presidential oath of allegiance in parliament.

Mr. Yuschenko called all government and law enforcement bodies to back him. "Honest Ukraine needs you! We have the utmost respect for you. Come over to our side!" he said.

The opposition leader pointed out his forced confrontation to the regime, whose moves he described as clashing with the law.

"An absolute majority of my nation-citizens who have made me legitimate President-have chosen the peaceful road. Of that I am convinced," stressed Yuschenko as he called his followers to stay in Independence Square. That is the sole way to protect democracy, he said.

"Ukrainian democracy is in danger. We would not be able to defend it if not for you. A sublime cause is waiting for you tomorrow-we are to consolidate our gains!"

The rallies chanted Victor Yuschenko's name as they waved banners.

The opposition leader did not say anything practical about his programme.

While walking from Parliament House to Independence Square, he remarked to newsmen his team was to come up tomorrow with "several initiatives" to get out of the current crisis.