Jimmy Lai, a notable figure in Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement and the founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper, is set to receive his sentence on Monday after being convicted in December under the national security law imposed by Beijing. At 78 years old, Lai faces the possibility of life imprisonment in a case that has drawn international scrutiny and criticism.
The official judiciary website announced on Friday that the sentencing hearing will occur at 10 a.m. local time. Lai was detained in 2020 pursuant to the national security law Beijing established to restore order following the anti-government protests that transpired in 2019.
Lai's outspoken criticism of China’s ruling Communist Party has been central to his prosecution. Observers view the trial as emblematic of the diminishing space for press freedom in Hong Kong, the special administrative region that reverted to Chinese control in 1997. Despite these perceptions, Hong Kong authorities insist that the case does not pertain to media freedom but rather to legal adherence.
The imminent sentencing has the potential to escalate diplomatic tensions between Beijing and Western governments. Following Lai's conviction, both the United States and United Kingdom publicly expressed disapproval. Notably, former U.S. President Donald Trump, who had personally raised concerns about Lai with Chinese officials, described feelings of distress over the verdict. Meanwhile, the UK government, referencing Lai’s British citizenship, has advocated for his release.
Hong Kong's Chief Justice Andrew Cheung reiterated in January that calls for a defendant's early release on political grounds threaten the integrity of the judicial process and undermine the rule of law. Such statements underscore the government's position that the judiciary operates independently and must assert accountability through established procedures.
The charges against Lai included conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and conspiracy to publish seditious material. Specifically, he and senior executives from Apple Daily were accused of coordinating with foreign entities, seeking sanctions or blockades, or other hostile actions against Hong Kong or China.
Lai has maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty to all allegations. His co-defendants, comprising six former journalists and two activists associated with Apple Daily, have entered pleas that could potentially result in lighter sentences. All parties are expected to attend the sentencing hearing Monday to learn their respective penalties.
In addition to the national security charges, Lai has been convicted of lesser offenses linked to fraud allegations and his conduct during 2019 protests. He is currently serving a prison sentence close to six years related to the fraud conviction.