In a landmark decision this week (Monday, Dec 15, 2025), the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) High Court found media tycoon Jimmy Lai guilty on two counts of conspiring to collude with external forces and one count of conspiracy to publish seditious materials. ⚖️
From lawmakers to business groups, voices across Hong Kong praised the verdict as a strong affirmation of the HKSAR’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding national security. 👍
Lee Wai-king, member of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress and a Legislative Council member, highlighted the transparent trial process, noting over 500 public seats provided for local and international media. According to Lee, the clear facts and conclusive evidence dispelled rumors about judicial independence and impartiality.
The Business and Professionals Alliance for Hong Kong applauded the professionalism of the judges, pointing out that both prosecution and defense had full opportunities to present evidence and cross-examine witnesses. The New People’s Party added that the lengthy trial reflected the court’s rigor, as Lai became the first defendant charged under the national security law’s “collusion” clause.
Law professor Fu Kin-chi of the Chinese Association of Hong Kong and Macao Studies called the written judgment “clearly articulated and tightly reasoned,” showing the judiciary’s firm stance and high standards in protecting national security.
The Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong (DAB) praised authorities for tackling “anti-China unrest,” while the Hong Kong Federation of Education Workers said society has returned to a safer, more orderly path since the national security law took effect.
The Hong Kong China Friendship Association condemned Western interference and praised the verdict for resisting external pressure on the judiciary. Honorary president of the Hong Kong Federation of Journalists, Calvin Choi, added that justice had prevailed against Lai’s long-standing negative impact on the city’s stability.
Legislative Council member Lee Tsz-king summed up the mood: in the face of “smears from anti-China forces,” Hong Kong society remains united in defending its legal foundations. As he put it, the city will never allow external forces to undermine its rule of law. 🌟
Reference(s):
Hong Kong groups back Jimmy Lai verdict as upholding rule of law
cgtn.com
