Media tycoon Jimmy Lai Chee-ying has been convicted in a high-profile national security trial that has drawn international attention.
The court found Lai guilty of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and sedition under Hong Kong’s national security law.
Lai, 78, is the founder of the now-defunct pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily, which was known for its critical reporting on Beijing and Hong Kong authorities.
His trial, closely followed around the world, has been seen as a key test of the city’s rule of law and press freedom.
Why Did Hong Kong’s Chief Executive Welcome the Verdict?
Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu described the conviction as a measure that “upholds justice and safeguards core values.”
Speaking to the press before departing for Beijing, Lee stated that Lai’s actions were “blatant crimes” carried out in full public view with strong evidence to support the charges.
Lee accused Lai of using Apple Daily to “collude with foreign or external forces” and to fuel social division and conflict.
He claimed that Lai encouraged foreign countries to impose sanctions on China and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).
“The law does not tolerate individuals of any background or profession publicly harming their own country and compatriots under the guise of human rights, democracy, or freedom,” Lee said.
How Have Supporters and Critics Reacted?
The verdict has prompted a wide range of reactions. Supporters of Jimmy Lai, both in Hong Kong and abroad, regard him as a symbol of the city’s pro-democracy movement.
In a few hours, Hong Kong’s “patriot judges” will give their “verdict” on Jimmy Lai’s national security case. It is almost certain that he would be found guilty of “colluding with foreign forces”. Judges are handpicked by Peking to ensure their allegiance, and those in Peking… pic.twitter.com/UtYe0GekQd
— Michael Mo (@michaelmohk) December 14, 2025
They have raised concerns about judicial independence, press freedom, and the broader implications of the national security law for civil liberties.
Jimmy Lai’s trial is a travesty of justice which discredits anyone involved with it. Joint statement from 76 lawmakers across 30 countries.
來自30個國家的76位立法者發聲明，重申黎智英的審訊是一場踐踏公義的鬧劇，使該案所有參與者自失其格。 pic.twitter.com/tP7Op6iuOb
— Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) (@ipacglobal) December 15, 2025
Meanwhile, government officials and pro-establishment supporters argue that the conviction demonstrates Hong Kong’s commitment to safeguarding national security and that the law applies equally to all citizens.
What Are the Legal Next Steps for Jimmy Lai?
Following his conviction, Lai is expected to face sentencing in early 2026. Under the national security law, he could face a lengthy prison term, potentially up to life imprisonment. His legal team has indicated plans to explore the possibility of an appeal after sentencing.
Legal observers and supporters of press freedom will be closely monitoring developments in the case, which has significant implications for media and political activity in Hong Kong.
