TAIPEI (Taiwan News) -- Foxconn founder and chairman Terry Gou (郭台銘) announced that he is officially entering the race for Taiwan presidency by taking part in the KMT presidential primary.
At an event this afternoon in which he received an honorary certificate from KMT Chairman Wu Den-yih (吳敦義), Gou said he would participate in the party's primary election and would not accept running unopposed with a direct appointment, reported Apple Daily. There were previous questions about Gou's eligibility to participate in the KMT's presidential primary process, but the certificate is an apparent resolution to this problem, as it proves his membership in the party.
In his speech, Wu stressed that Gou has been a member of the KMT for 50 years and he praised him for his contributions to his beloved party.
Gou said that the KMT should establish an open and grounded primary election system that serves as a model for others. Gou emphasized that he is willing to take part in the primaries and will not accept taking an unopposed appointment as the party's candidate.
Terry Gou holds up certificate. (CNA photo)
Gou said that if he is selected, he would serve as the KMT's presidential candidate in 2020. Moreover, if he is not chosen, it means he did not put enough effort into running, and he would support the party's choice.
During his speech after receiving the certificate Guo said:
"As a member of the party for 50 years, I thankfully accept this honorary certificate. I want reiterate that whether I am an entrepreneur in the future or have other possibilities, there are eight words [Chinese characters]: peace [和平], stability [安定], economy [經濟], and future [未來]. I also hope that the Kuomintang will strive to achieve three things: First, to find the soul of the Kuomintang. Second, to find the honor of being a Kuomintang member. Third, to recover the young people lost by the Kuomintang."
Earlier in the day, Gou said that he will definitely follow the instructions given to him in a dream by the sea goddess Matsu (媽祖) to come out and do good for the suffering of the people, and bring peace and prosperity to Taiwan. He described himself as being "like the righteous son of Matsu," and that the goddess has asked him to do more for the people of Taiwan.
The honorary certificate read as follows:
"Comrade Gou Tai-ming [Terry Gou], successful entrepreneur, enthusiastic supporter of public welfare. In view of the party's financial constraints and in his capacity as party member, Comrade Gou on Oct. 25, 2015 lent NT$45 million in the name of his senior virtuous mother Mrs. Guo Chu Yung Chen interest free. Today's meeting is being held to thank Comrade Guo Tai-ming for his 50 years of membership in the party and this special honorary credential is in recognition of his love and contribution to the party."
