Kyrgyz President Confirms Three Government Posts

Bakiev (right) with Atambaev last month (Courtesy Photo) April 2, 2007 -- Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiev today confirmed three new government officials as part of a new compromise cabinet aimed at defusing a standoff with the opposition.

The new appointees will head the Health Ministry, the Emergency Situations Ministry, and a new State Tax Committee.

Bakiev has also reappointed the ministers of defense, foreign affairs, transport, economy, and interior. Another 11 cabinet posts have yet to be filled.

Parliament last week confirmed Bakiev's appointment of a moderate opposition politician, Almaz Atambaev, as prime minister.

(Reuters)