Ukraine president promises to guarantee free poll

KIEV, Apr 28 (Reuters) Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko today said he would soon reveal moves to ensure an early parliamentary election he has ordered by decree took place in proper conditions.

''I will soon announce decisions that will guarantee the election takes place in a calm and appropriate manner,'' Yushchenko told tens of thousands of people at a rally backing Ukraine's opposition.

The pro-Western Yushchenko, who has long been at odds with Prime Minister Viktor Yanukovich and the majority in parliament backing him, issued the second of two decrees this week dissolving the chamber and calling a new parliamentary election for late June.

It was not immediately clear what measures the president might take to enforce his decree. His rival, Yanukovich, has opposed a new election.

During his surprise appearance at the rally alongside former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko, the president said he would do whatever was necessary to ensure the vote took place fairly and without disruption.

''The election will be honest and democratic with an appropriate level of organisation and international observers present. You will be able to express your will freely and honestly,'' he said in an appeal to Ukraine's 47 million people.

''I have sufficient means to ensure the preparation and staging of these elections. I will overcome any criminal sabotage. Any failure to act will be brought to account.'' Reuters JS GC2322