French Polynesia minister quits for Paris office

3:28 pm on 18 July 2017

French Polynesia's education minister Nicole Sanquer has resigned in order to maintain her seat in the French National Assembly which she won last month.

French Polynesia Sports Minister Madam Nicole Sanquer.

French Polynesia Sports Minister Madam Nicole Sanquer. Photo: ONOC

The president Edouard Fritch has decided against appointing a successor but to share out her portfolios.

He has given the education portfolio to the employment minister Tea Frogier while assuming the youth and sports portfolio himself.

New French restrictions on the cumulation of offices forced Ms Sanquer to quit the ministry but allowed her to remain a member of the French Polynesian assembly.

While serving as a minister, her seat was filled by Puta'i Taae who is now obliged to vacate it unless Ms Sanquer choses to relinquish the position.

Mr Taae has told the public broadcaster that he will quit the ruling party, should he be forced to leave the seat.