Hong Kong Activist and Media Tycoon Jimmy Lai Convicted Under National Security Law
Hong Kong pro-democracy activist and media entrepreneur Jimmy Lai has been found guilty of colluding with foreign forces under the city’s National Security Law (NSL), according to a court ruling on Monday.
The 78-year-old, who has been in custody since December 2020, denied all charges during the trial. However, the court concluded that his actions violated the security law, exposing him to a possible life sentence. His sentencing is expected early next year.
The court said Lai used his former newspaper, Apple Daily, to seek international pressure on Hong Kong and China, including calls for sanctions. The publication was shut down in 2021 following government action.
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee welcomed the verdict, stating that Lai’s activities harmed national interests and social stability. In contrast, several human rights organisations criticised the ruling, calling it an attack on press freedom and political expression.
During the trial, judges cited Lai’s public statements and overseas meetings as evidence. Lai rejected the allegations, saying he never attempted to influence foreign governments and only shared information when asked.
Lai, a British citizen and a prominent critic of Beijing, played a visible role during Hong Kong’s large-scale pro-democracy protests in 2019. Following those demonstrations, China introduced the National Security Law, granting authorities broad powers to prosecute acts deemed threats to state security.
In addition to the foreign collusion charge, the court also found Lai guilty of publishing seditious content under an older colonial-era law.
Lai appeared composed as the verdict was delivered and acknowledged family members present in the courtroom. His legal team said they would study the lengthy judgment before deciding whether to appeal.
International reactions followed quickly. Rights groups accused authorities of using the law to silence dissent, while Western governments, including the United States and the United Kingdom, renewed calls for Lai’s release. Beijing and Hong Kong officials have consistently rejected such demands.
The case has drawn global attention, with observers viewing it as a key test of judicial independence in Hong Kong. Officials maintain that the rule of law remains strong, while critics point to the high conviction rate under the NSL.
Lai has reportedly spent long periods in solitary confinement, and his family has raised concerns about his health. His conviction places him among many former activists and opposition figures jailed under the security law.