2008-05-11 23:58:05 -

NOUAKCHOTT, Mauritania (AP) - Mauritania's recently appointed prime minister has named five opposition leaders among 30 ministers making up his new government.
This is a first because previously there has not been anyone from the opposition heading ministries in this northwest African nation.
The opposition figures' posts include the health and employment ministries.
Prime Minister Yahya Ould

Ahmed Waqef announced the appointments late Sunday. Many members of the Cabinet are re-appointees.
Mauritania's president appointed Waqef as prime minister Tuesday, without giving a reason for the change.

Zeine Ould Zeidane had held the post since shortly after March 2007 elections in which he was the third-place finisher for the presidency.
The landmark vote saw a military junta give power to a civilian government.