Jimmy Lai Jailed 20 Years As Hong Kong Security Law Crushes Dissent

Jimmy Lai Jailed 20 Years As Hong Kong Security Law Crushes Dissent

China critic and former Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai has been sentenced to 20 years in prison in the most severe punishment yet under Beijing’s national security law, a case widely seen as a death blow to press freedom in the city.

Lai, 78, the founder of the now-shuttered Apple Daily newspaper, was convicted of conspiring to collude with foreign forces and publishing seditious material. Judges said he was the “mastermind” behind the offences, increasing the sentence despite his age and failing health. Eighteen years of the term will be served consecutively to an existing fraud sentence, meaning Lai is likely to die in custody.

Smiling and waving as he entered court, Lai grew solemn as the sentence was read. Supporters in the public gallery wept. His legal team declined to comment on whether an appeal would be lodged.

The case has drawn sharp international condemnation. The UK government, citing Lai’s British citizenship, called the prosecution politically motivated. Australia said it was “gravely concerned,” while Human Rights Watch described the sentence as “effectively a death sentence.” Former US President Donald Trump said he had personally raised Lai’s case with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

Hong Kong authorities insist the trial had nothing to do with journalism, arguing Lai used media outlets as cover for hostile activities. Chief Executive John Lee said the sentence demonstrated the rule of law and brought “great satisfaction” to the public.

Apple Daily, once one of Hong Kong’s most influential pro-democracy papers, was forced to close in 2021 after arrests of senior staff. Several former editors and activists received sentences of between six and ten years, some reduced after cooperating with prosecutors.

Legal experts warn the case dramatically broadens the definition of “collusion,” placing journalists, academics, and critics of the state at constant risk. Hong Kong now ranks 140th globally for press freedom — a staggering collapse from its former status as a regional media hub.

Lai has been in custody for over five years and suffers from diabetes, heart problems, and high blood pressure. His family say the sentence is “heartbreakingly cruel” and marks the end of justice in Hong Kong.

Key Takeaways

• Jimmy Lai’s 20-year sentence is the harshest yet under Hong Kong’s national security law

• Western governments say the case criminalises journalism and dissent

• Press freedom in Hong Kong has effectively collapsed since 2020

SOURCE: AP