Hong Kong – Pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai has been found guilty on all three national security charges, a verdict that has drawn widespread international criticism and raised alarm over press freedoms in the Chinese financial hub.

The 78-year-old founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper faces up to life imprisonment, though he can appeal the convictions. Lai, a British citizen, pleaded not guilty and was described by the court as the mastermind behind two conspiracies aimed at encouraging foreign countries to act against Hong Kong or China. Prosecutors also accused him of publishing material that “excited disaffection” toward the government.

Court Verdict and Reactions

Judge Esther Toh stated that Lai harbored “resentment and hatred of the PRC,” claiming he invited the United States “to help bring down” the Chinese government under the pretext of supporting Hongkongers.

Lai appeared composed during the reading of the verdict, nodding to his wife, Teresa, and son Lai Shun-yan in the public gallery. Defence lawyer Robert Pang noted that Lai remained “in fine spirits” and would review the 886-page judgment before deciding the next legal steps.

Lai’s other son, Sebastien Lai, urged the UK government to intensify efforts for his father’s release, describing it as a prerequisite for stronger diplomatic relations with China.

“It’s time to put action behind words and make my father’s release a pre-condition to closer relationships with China,” Sebastien told reporters in London.

International Condemnation

The UK government condemned the trial as politically motivated, calling for Lai’s release. The European Union labeled the conviction “emblematic of the erosion of democracy and fundamental freedoms in Hong Kong” following the imposition of the National Security Law by Beijing in 2020.

Beijing countered, criticizing the international criticism as attempts to smear Hong Kong’s judicial system.

Human rights organizations also voiced concerns. Amnesty International described the conviction as a “death knell for press freedom in Hong Kong,” while the Hong Kong Journalists Association highlighted increasing self-censorship and fear within the city’s media landscape.

Background and Health Concerns

Lai has been in custody since 2020. He suffered significant weight loss and health deterioration while imprisoned, according to family members. His daughter, Claire Lai, reported concerns over diabetes, nail and tooth decay, and general health decline, which authorities dismissed as “smearing.” Officials stated that Lai was receiving “adequate and comprehensive” medical care and that he had requested solitary confinement.

Prosecutors presented 161 items published by Apple Daily, including opinion pieces and talk shows hosted by Lai, as evidence that incited disaffection against the government. Additionally, Lai was accused of financing and orchestrating the protest group “Stand with Hong Kong, Fight for Freedom.”

Lai maintains that Apple Daily represented the core values of Hongkongers—rule of law, freedom, and pursuit of democracy—and never intended to influence foreign policy. Apple Daily was forced to close in 2021 following police raids. Six top executives have pleaded guilty as co-defendants.

Global Significance

Jimmy Lai’s conviction is widely seen as a symbol of declining press freedoms and political rights in Hong Kong. Analysts and activists warn that the case could further intimidate independent media and dissenting voices in the city, marking a significant step in the enforcement of Beijing’s National Security Law.