In a landmark national security trial, Jimmy Lai, the 76-year-old founder of the now-closed Apple Daily, takes a firm stand against accusations of foreign collusion, asserting that he has never attempted to influence foreign policy and expressing his commitment to Hong Kong's democratic values.
Trial of Pro-Democracy Icon Jimmy Lai: A Stand Against Allegations of Foreign Collusion
Trial of Pro-Democracy Icon Jimmy Lai: A Stand Against Allegations of Foreign Collusion
Jimmy Lai asserts he has never sought foreign intervention during his national security trial.
Jimmy Lai, a prominent pro-democracy advocate in Hong Kong, has made a notable appearance in a court marking his first testimony in a national security trial that may lead to a life sentence. Facing accusations of colluding with foreign powers, the media mogul stated unequivocally in court on Wednesday that he had "never" utilized his connections, including notable figures like former US Vice President Mike Pence and ex-Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen, to sway foreign policy regarding Hong Kong. Lai is already imprisoned for various charges arising from his participatory role in pro-democracy protests sparked in 2019, which ultimately prompted China to enforce a sweeping national security law (NSL) over the city.
His court hearing follows the sentencing of 45 pro-democracy activists, groups collectively referred to as the Hong Kong 47. Arriving at the courtroom in a brown jacket and glasses, Lai greeted family and supporters with a smile, despite being noticeably thinner since his arrest years ago. Outside the courthouse, numerous individuals waited to express solidarity with the influential media figure.
When questioned about past discussions with high-profile foreign officials, Lai repeated his stance of never attempting to manipulate foreign policy. He explicitly stated that during a meeting with then-Vice President Mike Pence, he merely conveyed the current situation in Hong Kong when prompted. Similarly, he clarified that in his encounter with then-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, he requested not action but mere vocal support for the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong.
Lai is among a multitude of activists and lawmakers facing detainment under the NSL, legislation deemed crucial by Beijing to clamp down on the unrest that escalated in 2019. The Chinese foreign ministry has characterized Lai as a "main plotter" of the unrest, labeling him a traitor trying to destabilize the nation’s security—a claim criticized by observers as indicative of Beijing's escalating repression in Hong Kong.
The pro-democracy figure has pled not guilty to conspiracy charges related to foreign collusion, coupled with allegations surrounding Apple Daily that stem from publishing content deemed seditious against the government following the enacting of the NSL. In his defense, Lai emphasized his disapproval of violence, asserting that he never permitted anyone at his newspaper to advocate for Hong Kong's independence, calling such an idea "absurd" and a "conspiracy."
He reiterated the core values represented by Apple Daily align closely with the deeply held values of the people in Hong Kong, citing principles like "rule of law, freedom, pursuit of democracy, freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and freedom of assembly." Following Lai's arrest, the tabloid ceased operations just a year later, with authorities alleging its content breached the NSL by provoking public dissent.
The ongoing prosecution of Lai, who possesses British citizenship, has drawn global scrutiny, inciting appeals from human rights organizations and international entities for his release. Former US President Donald Trump recently affirmed in a podcast that he would do everything possible to secure Lai's release from Chinese custody. Similarly, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer underscored Lai's case as a diplomatic priority and expressed concern during a recent encounter with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the G20 Summit held in Rio de Janeiro.
Lai's family and legal representatives have voiced increasing anxiety about his deteriorating health, citing significant weight loss and pronounced frailty noted in recent court appearances. Previously, he was sentenced to prison for charges including participation in unauthorized assemblies and fraud, remaining in solitary confinement since late 2020.
