In a landmark ruling that concludes Hong Kong’s most prominent national security case, media magnate Jimmy Lai has been sentenced to 20 years imprisonment. The 78-year-old British citizen, founder of the shuttered Apple Daily newspaper, received the verdict on Monday following convictions on two counts of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and one count of publishing seditious materials.
The court determined Lai’s sentence fell within the most severe penalty category for offenses of “grave nature,” which carries a range from 10 years to life imprisonment. Judicial authorities emphasized that Lai’s role as the “mastermind” and primary instigator behind foreign collusion conspiracies warranted enhanced sentencing.
Lai, who maintains his innocence and describes himself as a “political prisoner” facing Beijing-directed persecution, was first arrested in August 2020. His legal saga has spanned nearly five years, drawing international scrutiny and condemnation from Western leaders including U.S. President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
The case has intensified focus on Hong Kong’s national security crackdown implemented following mass pro-democracy protests in 2019. Dozens of supporters queued for days outside the courthouse, with one describing Lai as “the conscience of Hong Kong” who spoke for both Hong Kong citizens and mainland Chinese facing wrongful cases.
International diplomatic efforts have intensified, with Starmer raising Lai’s case directly with Chinese leader Xi Jinping during recent talks in Beijing’s Great Hall of the People. The British leader subsequently confirmed to Parliament that he had called for Lai’s release.
Concerns mount over Lai’s health conditions, including heart palpitations and high blood pressure, with family and supporters warning he could potentially die in prison. Alongside Lai, six former Apple Daily executives, an activist, and a paralegal await sentencing in related cases.
Press freedom advocates have condemned the proceedings, with the Committee to Protect Journalists labeling the trial “a charade” that demonstrates contempt for Hong Kong’s legal protections. Chinese authorities maintain that Lai received a fair trial and that the national security law has been essential in restoring order to the financial hub.