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In a landmark ruling that has reverberated across the globe, a Hong Kong court on February 9, 2026, sentenced 78-year-old media mogul and pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai to 20 years in prison. The sentence, handed down under the sweeping National Security Law (NSL) imposed by Beijing, is being described by human rights organizations and international leaders as an effective “life sentence” for the elderly publisher.
The Verdict and Charges
The sentencing marks the end of a high-profile trial that has spanned over five years since Lai was first arrested in August 2020. The High Court found the founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily guilty of:
- Two counts of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces under the National Security Law.
- One count of conspiracy to publish seditious material under a colonial-era sedition law.
The court identified Lai as the “mastermind and driving force” behind these conspiracies, which included calls for international sanctions against Chinese and Hong Kong officials. Alongside Lai, six former Apple Daily executives were sentenced to prison terms ranging from 6 to 10 years.
The “Death of Press Freedom”
The closure of Apple Daily in 2021 was a turning point for Hong Kong’s media landscape. Today’s sentencing is seen as the final blow.
- Rule of Law: Rights groups like Amnesty International and the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) stated that the rule of law has been “completely shattered,” noting that the conviction rate for NSL cases remains near 100%.
- A Life Sentence: Given Lai’s advanced age and reports of deteriorating health—including heart palpitations and high blood pressure—advocates fear he will die in solitary confinement.
Global Condemnation vs. Local Justification
The international response was immediate and sharp, contrasted by firm support from Beijing and Hong Kong authorities.
United Kingdom – Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper called it a “politically motivated prosecution” and urged for his release on humanitarian grounds.
United States – Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the 20-year term as “unjust and tragic,” calling for humanitarian parole.
United Nations – Rights chief Volker Türk stated the verdict is “incompatible with international law” and should be promptly quashed.
Hong Kong Gov – Chief Executive John Lee expressed that the sentence brings “great relief” and proves that “justice is done.” |
China (Beijing) – Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian defended the prosecution as “legitimate, justified, and lawful.”
What’s Next?
While the court’s decision is subject to appeal, the outlook for Lai is grim. The U.K. government has signaled it will “rapidly engage further” on the case, especially given Lai’s status as a British citizen. However, Beijing has consistently warned foreign powers against “interfering in internal affairs.”
