News|MediaHong Kong to sentence media mogul Jimmy Lai on national security convictionLai’s case has been condemned internationally by free speech advocates, human rights groups and global leaders.
Hong Kong media figure Jimmy Lai is scheduled for sentencing following his conviction related to national security charges, as announced by the judiciary of the Chinese self-governing territory.
Hong Kong media figure Jimmy Lai is scheduled for sentencing following his conviction related to national security charges, as announced by the judiciary of the Chinese self-governing territory.
The judiciary confirmed on its website that the sentencing is set for Monday morning.
The 78-year-old, known for founding the now-discontinued Apple Daily newspaper, was found guilty in December of foreign collusion as per the national security law implemented by Beijing. This law was introduced after significant pro-democracy protests in 2019. Additionally, Lai was convicted of seditious publication, which may result in a life sentence.
He has been incarcerated since 2020, and several Western nations have advocated for his release. Defense lawyers recognized the seriousness of the case, which included a charge of soliciting foreign sanctions. Sentencing will also involve eight co-defendants, including six Apple Daily executives.
While all defendants except Lai admitted guilt, some cooperated with prosecutors against him, potentially qualifying them for reduced sentences.
The judiciary confirmed on its website that the sentencing is set for Monday morning.
The judges' verdict in December, spanning 856 pages, indicated that Lai exhibited a longstanding animosity towards China and aimed for the downfall of the Chinese Communist Party.
During the trial, prosecutors referenced 161 Apple Daily articles, labeling them seditious under colonial-era laws due to their alleged promotion of government dissent.
Lai contended that he did not attempt to alter foreign policies, asserting that Apple Daily voiced core Hong Kong values, including the rule of law and democratic aspirations.
The case has elicited international condemnation from journalism advocacy groups and global leaders. Keir Starmer, the British Prime Minister, discussed Lai's case with China’s Xi Jinping, emphasizing differing views. Following Lai's conviction, the European Union remarked on the diminishing democracy and freedoms in Hong Kong post-National Security Law implementation.
Amnesty International described the conviction as detrimental to press freedom, whereas the Committee to Protect Journalists labeled it as a "sham."
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.