HONG KONG (AP) — In a significant legal development, former media tycoon and pro-democracy advocate Jimmy Lai has been found guilty by a Hong Kong court. The charges include conspiracies to commit sedition and collusion with foreign entities, highlighting the extensive changes in the city since Beijing’s crackdown on dissent began five years ago.
Lai, aged 78, was arrested in 2020 under a national security law introduced by Chinese authorities to suppress the large-scale anti-government protests of 2019. Facing a potential life sentence for the collusion charge, Lai’s case has captured international attention as a measure of Hong Kong’s judicial independence and media freedom.
Lai’s Arrest Amidst Increased Control by China
Once known for its dynamic press and protest culture, Hong Kong has seen a significant shift as Beijing intensified its control following large protests. Lai was among the initial high-profile individuals charged under the National Security Law, a measure deemed essential by Beijing for maintaining the city’s stability.
This law has led to the closure of numerous civil society groups and prompted many professionals to emigrate to places like Britain, Canada, and the United States.
Apple Daily’s Pro-Democracy Legacy
Lai, who transitioned from his clothing chain Giordano to media following the 1989 Tiananmen crackdown, founded a newspaper known for its pro-democracy stance. The publication was popular for its coverage of politics and celebrities and often encouraged protest participation.
The 2019 protests saw Lai actively participating, but his arrest in August 2020, during a police raid on Apple Daily, led to his continued detention since December 2020. A subsequent raid and asset freeze forced the newspaper to close down, with its final edition selling out quickly.
Allegations of Seeking Foreign Sanctions
Lai faced accusations of urging foreign powers, particularly the U.S., to impose sanctions on China under the guise of promoting freedom and democracy. While he admitted to past calls for sanctions, he claimed to have ceased after the law’s enactment.
Prosecutors argued that Lai’s continued criticism of Hong Kong and China through various media was an attempt to justify foreign punitive actions. His lawyer, Robert Pang, described his remarks as harmless commentary and emphasized the importance of free speech.
Judge Esther Toh dismissed Lai’s defense, citing evidence of his “constant invitations” to the U.S. to challenge the Chinese government.
Focus on Lai’s International Connections
Lai’s meetings with prominent U.S. officials during the 2019 protests were highlighted by prosecutors as indicative of his intent to solicit foreign intervention against China and Hong Kong.
Six senior executives from Apple Daily pleaded guilty and testified against Lai, although his defense questioned the reliability of some testimonies.
The Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, a group critical of China, rejected claims of Lai’s involvement with its network.
International Reactions and Concerns
Lai’s case has attracted attention from foreign governments, with countries like the U.S. and the U.K. advocating for his release. Beijing, however, labels Lai as an “agent and pawn of anti-China foreign forces.”
Lai’s trial faced delays, including a postponement due to the barring of his British lawyer from the case, citing potential national security risks.
Health Concerns Amid Potential Life Sentence
Recent reports indicate Lai’s health is deteriorating, with concerns raised by his children. Despite this, authorities maintain that his medical care is sufficient.
The severity of the charges could lead to a life sentence, though a mitigation hearing is set for January 12. Lai retains the option to appeal.
