8th January 2025 – (Hong Kong) Jimmy Lai, founder of Next Digital and a prominent figure in the Apple Daily group, is facing three charges under the National Security Law, including conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and the publication of seditious materials. As the trial enters its 116th day today, Lai continues to represent himself, asserting that he is an outspoken advocate who anticipated his imprisonment due to his activism.
Lai admitted that he was aware of the potential legal risks associated with participating in the 4th June vigil but nonetheless used Twitter (now X) to encourage others not to be afraid, describing international concern as a “saviour” for Hong Kong.
During questioning by his defence barrister, Lai reflected on a conversation he had on 13th November, 2020, during an online programme titled “Live Chat with Jimmy Lai,” where he discussed the necessity of continued struggle for rule of law and freedom, despite the restrictions imposed by the National Security Law. He expressed scepticism regarding the existence of true rule of law and freedom in the presence of political prisoners, asserting that his own arrest was indicative of this reality.
In a subsequent discussion on 20th November with former Israeli Deputy Prime Minister Natan Sharansky, Lai noted that the more perilous his situation became, the more effective it was at drawing international attention to Hong Kong. He reiterated that he understood the risks of his actions, including potential charges of collusion, but felt it was crucial to persist in order to highlight the plight of the city.
On 24th November, Lai shared multiple posts on his Twitter account, including one featuring news about pro-democracy activist Joshua Wong, emphasising that young protesters would not back down despite facing arbitrary charges. He also shared commentary regarding the dire state of affairs in Hong Kong, stating that the only remedy was to persist in the struggle. Lai clarified that his posts were intended to express solidarity with young activists and not to incite illegality, despite acknowledging the dangers involved in his actions.
Lai’s case involves four defendants, including himself and three companies under Apple Daily, all charged with conspiracy to print, publish, and distribute seditious materials, alongside the separate charge of colluding with foreign forces to undermine national security.
The post Jimmy Lai acknowledges potential illegality of 4th June vigil participation, calls international attention Hong Kong’s “saviour” appeared first on Dimsum Daily.
English (US) ·