What does press freedom look like in Hong Kong now? Many critics say Monday’s verdict offered a grim answer.
Jimmy Lai — the outspoken media tycoon and pro-democracy figure — was found guilty on all three counts in his national security trial.
A ruling rights groups say all but seals the fate of independent journalism in the city.
Prosecutors painted the 78-year-old as the “mastermind” of plots to urge foreign governments to act against Hong Kong and China.
They accused him of publishing content that stirred public anger toward authorities.
The court didn’t hold back. Judge Esther Toh said Lai harboured “resentment and hatred” toward China.
He had sought US help to “bring down” the government, supposedly in the name of helping Hong Kong’s people.
Life Sentence Looms
Lai, who pleaded not guilty, now faces a potential life sentence — though he retains the right to appeal.
Dressed in a green cardigan and grey jacket, Lai listened quietly as the verdict was read, nodding to his wife and son before leaving the courtroom.
His lawyer, Robert Pang, said Lai remained “in fine spirits” as the team studies the 886-page ruling.
Britain, where Lai holds citizenship, called the case “politically motivated,” while his son Sebastien urged London to “do more.”
The bigger question lingers: if this is the cost of dissent, who will dare speak next?
