Terry Gou, the billionaire founder of major Apple Inc supplier Foxconn, announced on Monday that he is entering the race as an independent candidate for Taiwan's presidency in the 2024 elections.

Having stepped down as Foxconn's chief in 2019, Gou initially pursued the presidency in that year's election but withdrew after failing to secure the nomination from Taiwan's main opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), known for its pro-China stance. His subsequent bid to become the KMT's presidential candidate for the upcoming election in January was also unsuccessful, as the party opted for Hou Yu-ih, the mayor of New Taipei City.

Gou's recent activities, which included touring Taiwan and holding rallies resembling campaign events, sparked rumors of an independent run.

In his statement, Gou criticized the ruling Democratic Progressive Party's policies over the past seven years, stating that they have led Taiwan towards the threat of conflict and made domestic errors. He asserted the dawn of an "entrepreneur's rule."

Appealing to Taiwan's voters, Gou promised that if given a four-year term, he would ensure 50 years of peace in the Taiwan Strait and build a strong foundation for mutual trust. He expressed determination to prevent Taiwan from facing a situation like Ukraine.