6th January 2025 – (Hong Kong) Jimmy Lai, the founder of Next Digital, along with three associated companies, is currently facing charges of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and publishing seditious material, in violation of the Hong Kong National Security Law. As the trial enters its 114th day, Lai continues to defend himself, acknowledging that he once referred to Taiwan as a “country” during a personal programme. While he admits that better terminology might exist, he insists that Taiwan is part of China and denies any intent to promote independence.
Lai previously called for the international community to speak out regarding the case of twelve Hongkongers, which he acknowledges could be seen as a request for foreign intervention in China’s internal affairs.
During the proceedings, it was revealed that records from the Apple Daily’s “Bento Club” were distributed via Slack. The defence presented a record from 30th September, 2020, in which then-editor Ryan Law mentioned the “Bento Club highlights,” including a suggestion to find an independent host for the programme. Lai clarified that Apple Daily did not support Hong Kong independence and believes the search for an independent host was a mere oversight.
In a previous episode of “Live Chat with Jimmy Lai,” he stated that in response to threats from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), he believed that Trump would rally Western nations to create a new world order. In this context, Lai described China as the enemy of free societies, asserting that countries facing CCP threats must welcome more American involvement.
When questioned about whether China is an enemy, Lai responded affirmatively, stating, “Yes, from Hong Kong’s perspective.” He also expressed that Taiwan’s semiconductor industry is crucial to the United States and views Taiwan as poised to become a unique nation. While he acknowledged that he could have chosen different wording than “country,” he firmly denied promoting independence, reiterating that Taiwan cannot be a sovereign state.
The case has seen various developments, including the arrest of legal assistant Chan Tsz-wah in October 2020, which Lai learned about from Martin Lee. In a column published the same month, Lai discussed the implications of US technology restrictions on China, asserting that such sanctions hindered China’s technological advancements.
On 15th October, 2020, during a broadcast, Lai insisted the international community should advocate for the twelve Hong Kongers who crossed the border illegally, urging pressure on the CCP for their return. When asked if this was a request for foreign intervention, Lai confirmed it was, while also reiterating that Trump’s firm stance on China was correct.
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