On December 15, 2025, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) High Court found media entrepreneur Jimmy Lai guilty of two counts of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces to endanger national security under the Law of the People's Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and one count of conspiracy to publish seditious publications. His sentencing hearing began on January 12, 2026, and will continue through January 15.
What charges is Lai facing? 🤔
- Collusion with foreign forces: Two counts, accused of seeking external interference in Hong Kong's affairs.
- Seditious publications: One count, for allegedly inciting hatred and violence through his media outlets.
A look back at Lai's rise and controversies 📰
From a stowaway and garment factory owner to the founder of Apple Daily and Next Digital, Lai built a media empire in under 30 years. But critics say he used this platform to publish 161 so-called seditious articles, rallying residents against the HKSAR government and police.
Key flashpoints 📌
- 2014 Occupy Central: Lai was a key backer of the movement demanding greater democracy.
- 2019 protests: Under the banner of opposing extradition amendments, he joined planning and organizing street actions.
- Post-2020 national security law: Despite the law's enactment, his outlets continued to call for foreign sanctions and interference.
Looking ahead 🔍
As the sentencing hearing wraps up on January 15, residents and observers are watching closely. Lai faces a potentially lengthy sentence, and the verdict will shape Hong Kong's media landscape and debates over press freedom.
Stay tuned for updates as the court delivers its final decision! ✨
Reference(s):
Inside Jimmy Lai's sentence hearing: What he sowed, he now reaps
cgtn.com
