Legislature President Wang Jin-pyng has indicated that he will not seek the nomination of the ruling Kuomintang (KMT) to run in next year’s presidential election.
Wang held a press conference on Friday – a day before the deadline for picking up an application to participate in the KMT’s presidential primary. Although he did not specifically say that he will not run, he read a prepared statement hinting that he will not seek the party’s nomination.
"I have been unable to fully convince everyone that I can shoulder great responsibilities and meet the expectations of all sides. Here I’d like to thank [those who support me] and offer my sincerest apologies," said Wang.
So far only three people have picked up a registration form to participate in the KMT’s presidential primary. None of the party heavyweights have thrown their hats in the ring.
The KMT candidate will face off against chairwoman of the opposition Democratic Progressive Party Tsai Ing-wen.