Hong Kong’s Jimmy Lai gets convicted under Hong Kong NSL
The court determined that Lai used his now-closed Apple Daily newspaper to lobby foreign governments to impose sanctions on Hong Kong and China. Hong Kong’s chief executive praised the verdict, stating that Lai's actions "damaged the country's interests and the welfare of Hong Kongers," while rights groups denounced the decision as "a cruel judicial farce," claiming the NSL is being used to suppress dissent.
"There is 'no doubt' that Jimmy Lai 'harboured hatred' for the People's Republic of China (PRC)," Judge Esther Toh said, referencing his "constant invitation to the US to help bring down the government of the PRC with the excuse of helping the people of Hong Kong."
During his November testimony, Lai denied all charges, insisting that he had "never" used his foreign contacts to influence policy on Hong Kong. Regarding his meetings with then-US Vice President Mike Pence and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, he said he did not request any actions, but "I would just relay to him what happened in Hong Kong when he asked me" and that he asked Pompeo "not to do something but to say something, to voice support for Hong Kong."
A UK citizen and outspoken critic of China, Lai played a key role in the 2019 pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong, which led Beijing to enact the NSL. Introduced without consulting the city legislature, the law gives authorities broad powers to charge and imprison those deemed a threat to public order or government stability.
Lai was also found guilty of publishing seditious material under a separate colonial-era law linked to Apple Daily content. He remained composed as the verdict was read and waved goodbye to his family, including his wife Teresa and one of his sons. Cardinal Joseph Zen, a long-time friend, was also present. "Mr Lai's spirit is okay," his lawyer said. "The judgement is so long that we'll need some time to study it first. I don't have anything to add at the moment."
Elaine Pearson, Asia Director at Human Rights Watch, criticized the ruling, saying, "The Chinese government abused Jimmy Lai with the aim of silencing all those who dare to criticise the CCP [Chinese Communist Party]. In the face of the farce of Jimmy Lai's case, governments should pressure the authorities to withdraw the case and release him immediately."
Western governments have repeatedly called for Lai’s release, though Beijing and Hong Kong authorities have refused. US President Donald Trump had pledged to "do everything to save" Lai, while UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described securing his release as a "priority."
The trial has been widely regarded as a test of judicial independence in Hong Kong, with critics noting the NSL’s near 100% conviction rate and frequent denial of bail. Concerns over Lai’s declining health have been raised, as he is reportedly held in solitary confinement. His son Sebastien said earlier this year that his father's "body is breaking down" and warned, "Given his age, given his health... he will die in prison."
The Hong Kong government has faced criticism for restricting foreign lawyers from handling NSL cases without prior approval, resulting in Lai being denied his preferred UK-based attorney.
Lai now joins dozens of pro-democracy figures in Hong Kong who have been sentenced under the NSL. Following the verdict, the head of Hong Kong’s national security police said Lai had "fabricated news" to pursue "political goals." Mainland media cited a Hong Kong election committee member stating the case sends a "clear message": "Any attempt to split the country or undermine Hong Kong's prosperity and stability will be met with severe punishment under the law."
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