The verdict in the Jimmy Lai case affirms justice and serves as a stern warning that anyone who endangers national security and sabotages the stability of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) will face severe punishment by law.
The High Court of the HKSAR on Monday sentenced Lai to 20 years in prison, after considering his "serious and grave criminal conduct." Lai was found guilty on two charges of conspiring to collude with external forces and a charge of conspiracy to publish seditious materials. The court found that Lai was "the mastermind and driving force behind these conspiracies."
Disguised as a media man while acting as an agent for external anti-China forces, Lai was the principal mastermind and perpetrator of a series of riots that shook Hong Kong and undermined the fundamental interests of both the country and the HKSAR.
In response to the ruling, John Lee, chief executive of the HKSAR, pointed out that Lai's crimes were egregious and unforgivable, and the verdict underscores the rule of law and greatly satisfies the public in Hong Kong.
This verdict is Hong Kong's first case involving the "conspiracy to collude with foreign forces" offense since the implementation of the National Security Law for Hong Kong, said Lee, who also described it as a significant milestone in the place's efforts to safeguard national security.
Lee emphasized that the National Security Law for Hong Kong is a "stabilizing anchor," delivering a clear warning to those who attempt to undermine national security that they will face strong legal consequences.
Jimmy Lai verdict upholds justice: HK chief executive
