BORIS YELTSIN

, the presidents of the two houses of parliament, and Kirienko. That meeting reportedly will discuss the composition of the new government, which Kirienko will formally recommend to Yeltsin after he is confirmed. It is likely that to ensure broad support for Kirienko in the Communist-dominated Duma, Yeltsin will agree to place a few members of the opposition in cabinet-level positions. Only the prime minister is subject to confirmation, however, and like a high-jumper he gets three attempts to clear the bar. If the Duma votes Kirienko down three times, President Yeltsin may dismiss the Duma and call new elections.

The press touts Kirienko as an economic liberal. His biography and association with Boris Nemtsov support that view. In preparing to appear before the Duma, he has asked for advice from several noted liberals including