Jimmy Lai Trial Ends: A Test of Hong Kong’s Freedoms

Hong Kong, Aug 28 (AP) The landmark national security trial of Jimmy Lai, the founder of Hong Kong’s pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily, concluded Thursday with final arguments. Lai, who could face a life sentence if convicted, has been a prominent critic of the government. He was arrested under a national security law imposed by Beijing after the 2019 anti-government protests.

Charged with colluding with foreign forces to endanger national security and conspiring to publish seditious materials, Lai’s trial extended over nearly 160 days, much longer than initially anticipated. The verdict is expected in the coming weeks or months, with potential sentences ranging from three years to life imprisonment. The case is seen as an important test of press freedom and judicial independence in Hong Kong.

Defense lawyer Robert Pang argued that Lai’s online comments were merely speculative and not calls for hostile actions against China or Hong Kong. Judge Esther Toh challenged this view, suggesting that freedom of expression has its limitations.

Marc Corlett, another lawyer for Lai, disputed claims that his client conspired with groups like “Stand with Hong Kong Fight for Freedom” to solicit foreign intervention. Corlett dismissed one prosecution witness as unreliable, emphasizing there was no conclusive evidence of Lai entering into a conspiracy.

The prosecution argued that Lai sought foreign actions against Beijing under the pretense of advocating for freedom and democracy. They claimed that Lai's interactions with foreign entities illustrated his intent to endanger national security, using Apple Daily as a tool to achieve this aim.

Lai, now 77, has been detained for over four years and reported health issues such as heart palpitations. However, authorities stated that medical examinations found no abnormalities. As Lai entered the courtroom, he acknowledged supporters with a smile and a gesture of gratitude. After the session, he briefly spoke with his lawyers and waved to the public gallery.

The trial has generated significant international interest and concern regarding Lai’s health and Hong Kong’s freedoms. Just before the hearing, residents gathered outside the courtroom, expressing their support and worries about Lai’s well-being.

Global reactions include comments from US President Donald Trump, who pledged to help Lai, and a letter from Reporters Without Borders and 72 other organizations urging British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to advocate for Lai’s urgent release. China has criticized Lai for inciting anti-China sentiment, opposing foreign interference in its internal matters.

The controversy surrounding Lai’s case highlights ongoing tensions between China’s promises to preserve Hong Kong’s civil liberties, made during the 1997 handover by Britain, and the enforcement of new security laws that critics claim restrict these freedoms. Chinese and Hong Kong officials argue that these laws are essential for maintaining the city’s stability. (AP)

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