Foxconn chief Gou says to seek Taiwan leadership

TERRY Gou, chairman of Apple supplier Foxconn, said yesterday he will contest Taiwan’s 2020 leadership election.

Gou, Taiwan’s richest person with a net worth of US$7.6 billion according to Forbes, said he would join the already competitive race and take part in the opposition Kuomintang primaries.

Foxconn said on Tuesday Gou would remain chairman, though he planned to withdraw from daily operations. Foxconn assembles Apple iPhones as well as parts and accessories for other international brands.

Gou’s decision capped a flurry of news this week that began when he said on Monday he planned to step down from the world’s largest contract manufacturer to pave the way for younger talent to move up the company’s ranks.

He later announced he was considering running for Taiwan leader and hinted he was close to a decision, and then told more than 100 people packed into a temple he would follow the instruction of sea goddess Mazu who had told him to take part in the race.

(Reuters)