Bill Gates heckled during ceremony

By

Prize-giving ceremony in Peking interrupted by open source advocate.

Bill Gates heckled during ceremony
An address by Microsoft chairman Bill Gates to students at the University of Peking was interrupted by an open source enthusiast calling for more free software.

Wang Yang, also known as WangKaiyuan, chief China representative of the Linux Professional Institute, jumped onto the stage as Gates was presenting prizes for student innovation.

The Microsoft chief looked on bemused as Wang Yang held up a sign proclaiming 'Free software, open source'.

Zhao Xiaoliang, acting executive of Red Flag Software, said in a comment posted on the Chinese Sohu.com message boards: "I was surprised at Wang's act because we met a couple of times before and he seemed to be a cautious man.

"But I think Wang might have acted for the benefit of China's software buyers."

Red Flag Software aims to provide high quality Linux related products and services in China.

Wang Yang was on stage for 30 seconds before being detained and questioned by police.

"We respect everyone's right of free speech and the incident did not damage Microsoft's innovation event in Peking University," said Chen Ranfeng, a publicity executive for Microsoft China.
Got a news tip for our journalists? Share it with us anonymously here.
Copyright ©v3.co.uk
Tags:

Most Read Articles

SA Police is under new tech leadership

SA Police is under new tech leadership

ANZ's group executive of technology Gerard Florian to retire

ANZ's group executive of technology Gerard Florian to retire

Qantas appoints new group CIO and CISO

Qantas appoints new group CIO and CISO

Turnbull's Digital Transformation Office to cost $95m

Turnbull's Digital Transformation Office to cost $95m

Log In

  |  Forgot your password?