Chinese businessman in New Zealand political scandal cleared of family violence charges

Family violence charges against a Chinese businessman and his New Zealand government political supporter have been dropped, ending a saga that led to the resignation of a Cabinet minister.

Auckland-based businessman Donghua Liu had been due to face trial at the Auckland District Court Tuesday over an alleged attack on his partner and her mother.

However, Radio New Zealand reported, prosecuting lawyer Mark Wilton said there was no evidence to support the charges as both complainants had recanted their complaints.

Liu had initially originally admitted the charges, but then reversed his pleas.

Liu was at the center of Customs Minister Maurice Williamson's resignation in May last year after it was revealed Williamson had contacted the police about the charges.

Prime Minister John Key said at the time that Williamson's actions had been very unwise as they had the potential to bring the independence of police investigations into question.

Williamson was also forced to resign his other ministerial portfolios of Building and Construction as well as Land Information.

Controversy has surrounded the government's links to Liu since Nathan Guy, then Minister of Internal Affairs, granted Liu New Zealand citizenship, against official advice, in 2010 after Williamson lobbied on Liu's behalf.

In 2012, Roncon Pacific Hotel Management Holdings Ltd., of which Liu is a director, gave a five-figure donation to Key and Williamson's governing National Party.

Last year, the police charged Liu with assault with intent to injure and male assault on a female, which was when Williamson contacted the police to discuss the case. Endi