Hong Kong: Hong Kong’s High Court on Monday found pro-democracy activist and media tycoon Jimmy Lai guilty of collusion with foreign forces under the China-imposed national security law, a conviction that could result in a life sentence.
Delivering the verdict, High Court Judge Esther Toh said the court had “no doubt” that Lai had consistently intended to destabilize the government of the Chinese Communist Party. She added that his actions ultimately came “at the cost of sacrificing the interests of the people” of both China and Hong Kong.
Jimmy Lai, the founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper, has been a prominent critic of Beijing and a leading figure in Hong Kong’s pro-democracy movement. He has been held in custody since 2020 and faces multiple charges related to national security and public order.
The case has attracted widespread international attention and criticism, with governments and human rights groups expressing concern over the erosion of judicial independence and civil liberties in Hong Kong. Observers see the verdict as part of a broader crackdown on dissent following the introduction of the national security law in 2020.
Chinese and Hong Kong authorities have defended the law, arguing that it is necessary to restore stability and safeguard national sovereignty. However, critics say it has been used to silence opposition voices and curtail press freedom in the global financial hub.
Lai’s sentencing is expected at a later date, as the case continues to be closely watched both locally and internationally.