WAR VETERANS' PROTEST RALLY BEGINS IN ZAGREB

ZAGREB, Oct 20 (Hina) - A protest rally, organised by the national headquarters for the protection of Homeland War values, commenced shortly after the noon Saturday in Zagreb's main square with the performance of Croatia's anthem and a minute of silence observed by participants in tribute to killed war veterans. Participants in the rally, called "Time's Up", arrived from all parts of Croatia. They are carrying photographs of the late Croatian President Franjo Tudjman and some Croatian generals, indicted by the UN war crimes tribunal (ICTY), and many banners with slogans "Croatian Warriors And Not War Criminals." Several retired generals and leaders of war veterans' associations are expected to address the event. Many pop singers will also perform their programmes. Prior to the start of the rally, the headquarters' head, Lieutenant Mirko Condic, told reporters that he was expecting the arrival of over 30,000 people. According to a report issued by the Interior Ministry, until 11.30 am Saturday, 167 busses with about 7,500 protesters arrived in Zagreb. The protest rally is to finish at about 03.00 p.m. when Condic should read out a declaration and the headquarters' demands forwarded to Croatia's authorities. (hina) sb ms