Hong Kong Media Tycoon Jimmy Lai Convicted Under National Security Law
Hong Kong pro-democracy campaigner and media tycoon Jimmy Lai has been convicted of colluding with foreign forces under the city’s national security law (NSL), officials confirmed.
Lai, 78, who has been detained since December 2020, pleaded not guilty. He now faces a potential life sentence and is expected to be sentenced early next year. The court found that Lai used his defunct Apple Daily newspaper to lobby foreign governments to impose sanctions on Hong Kong and China.
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee welcomed the verdict, stating Lai’s actions had «damaged the country’s interests and the welfare of Hong Kongers». Rights groups described the ruling as a «cruel judicial farce», saying the NSL, defended by Beijing as crucial for stability, is used to suppress dissent.
Court cites foreign lobbying and anti-China activity
Judge Esther Toh said there was «no doubt» that Lai «harboured hatred» for the People’s Republic of China, citing his repeated calls to the US to undermine the government under the pretext of supporting Hong Kong.
During his November testimony, Lai denied all charges, insisting he had «never» tried to influence foreign policy. He said meetings with US officials, including Mike Pence and Mike Pompeo, were simply to provide updates on Hong Kong’s situation.
A UK citizen and key figure in the 2019 pro-democracy protests, Lai has long criticised the Chinese state. The NSL, introduced in response to the protests, allows authorities broad powers to charge and imprison those considered threats to law, order or government stability.
The court also found Lai guilty of publishing seditious material under a separate colonial-era law. He remained calm as the verdict was read, waving to his family before being escorted from court. His wife Michele and one of his sons attended, alongside Cardinal Joseph Zen, a long-time friend.
Rights groups and international reaction
Human Rights Watch condemned the ruling, calling it an attempt by the Chinese government to silence critics of the Communist Party. Western governments, including the UK and US, have repeatedly urged Lai’s release, which has been refused by Beijing and Hong Kong authorities.
Lai’s trial is widely seen as a test of judicial independence, with critics citing a near 100% conviction rate under the NSL, limited bail, and restrictions on foreign lawyers in NSL cases. Lai has reportedly been held in solitary confinement, raising concerns over his health.
From businessman to democracy activist
Born in mainland China, Lai fled to Hong Kong at age 12 and built a business career with the Giordano brand. His activism began after the Tiananmen Square crackdown in 1989, leading him to establish pro-democracy publications including Apple Daily.
Many Hong Kongers still view Lai as a symbol of democracy. Supporters queued for hours outside court to witness the verdict, praising his dedication to freedom, rule of law and community integrity despite personal risk.
Lai has maintained that Apple Daily never promoted Hong Kong independence, emphasising its core values reflect those of the people of Hong Kong: rule of law, freedom of speech, religion, assembly, and the pursuit of democracy.
