14 Facts About Frank Lui

Frank Fakaotimanava Lui was a Niuean politician, who served as the premier of the Pacific Island state of Niue from 1993 to 1999.

Frank Lui's parents sent for him when he was nine years old and he attended Newtown School.

Frank Lui left Naenae school in 1950 to attend Wellington High School.

Frank Lui returned to Niue in 1956 to care for his grandparents and has lived there since.

Frank Lui was elected at the 1963 Niuean general election at the age of only 28, becoming the youngest ever person elected to the Niue Assembly.

Frank Lui lost his seat at the 1966 election, but was re-elected in 1969.

Frank Lui was re-elected again in 1972 and appointed Minister of Works and Police in the Cabinet of Robert Rex.

Frank Lui was re-elected unopposed in the 1975 election and was appointed Minister of Electricity, Fisheries, Forests, Tourism, and Works.

Frank Lui served in a variety of other Cabinet positions over the next fifteen years.

Frank Lui was re-elected to the Assembly at the following 1993 election, and on 12 March was elected Premier, defeating Vivian 11 votes to 9.

Frank Lui joined the opposition, which organised itself into the Niue People's Party and effectively deadlocked the assembly.

Frank Lui's second-term was more stable, and the government was able to pass anti-corruption laws and a ban on drift-net fishing in its Exclusive Economic Zone.

Frank Lui lost his seat in the 1999 election, and announced his retirement.

Frank Lui was appointed a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the 1999 Queen's Birthday Honours.