Hong Kong media mogul and prominent pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai has begun serving a five-year, nine-month prison sentence after being convicted under the territory's controversial national security law. The 76-year-old founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper was found guilty of fraud related to land use violations.
International Outcry Over Political Prosecution
The sentencing has sparked international condemnation, with UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron leading criticism of what many Western governments describe as a politically motivated prosecution. Supporters argue Lai is being targeted for his longstanding opposition to Beijing's influence in Hong Kong.
"This case represents a serious erosion of press freedom and judicial independence in Hong Kong," Cameron stated in an official response. The Foreign Secretary emphasised that the UK would continue to monitor the situation closely.
The Fall of Apple Daily
Lai's conviction stems from allegations that he committed fraud by violating land lease terms for the headquarters of his pro-democracy newspaper, Apple Daily. The publication was forced to cease operations in 2021 after authorities froze its assets and arrested multiple staff members.
- Apple Daily was known for its critical coverage of Beijing
- The newspaper employed over 300 staff before closure
- Authorities accused the publication of threatening national security
Broader Implications for Hong Kong
Legal experts suggest Lai's case signals a worrying trend of using technical charges to target government critics following the implementation of the national security law in 2020. The legislation has been widely criticised for undermining Hong Kong's judicial autonomy and basic freedoms.
"This sentencing sets a dangerous precedent for anyone expressing dissent in Hong Kong," noted a human rights observer familiar with the case.
The international community continues to watch developments closely as concerns grow about the future of civil liberties in the former British colony.
