Hong Kong court hears arguments on sentencing for media tycoon Jimmy Lai, convicted of national security crimes carrying a potential life term.
HONG KONG: A court began hearing sentencing arguments on Monday for pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai, convicted of national security crimes.
The 78-year-old British citizen was found guilty last month on two counts of conspiracy to commit collusion under Beijing’s 2020 national security law.
He was also convicted of publishing seditious articles through his now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper.
Lawyers addressed three High Court judges, with arguments scheduled to last four days.
The court has not yet announced a date for sentencing, which Lai can appeal.
Judges stated in their verdict that Lai harboured resentment and sought the “downfall of the Chinese Communist Party”.
Collusion offences “of a grave nature” carry a prison term between 10 years and life under the security law.
The sedition charge carries a maximum penalty of two years.
Dozens queued outside the West Kowloon court over the weekend hoping to support Lai.
Judges began Monday’s hearing by confirming guilty pleas from two co-defendants, Chan Tsz-wah and Li Yu-hin.
Six Apple Daily executives also pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentence.
Lai has been detained since 2020, with authorities stating he is in solitary confinement at his own request.
His children recently expressed concerns about his significant weight loss and health in custody.
The Hong Kong government denies these claims, insisting Lai receives adequate care.
Amnesty International called the conviction “the death knell for press freedom in Hong Kong”.
A government spokesperson said the case “has nothing to do with freedom of speech and of the press”.
Official figures show 385 people have been arrested for national security crimes, with 175 convicted.
Police made nearly 70 national security-related arrests last year, more than double the 2024 figure.
