Hong Kong media tycoon and founder of “Apple Daily” newspaper, Jimmy Lai, was recently convicted on three charges of “colluding with foreign forces” and “conspiring to publish seditious publications”. Today, the case entered the “mitigation stage” at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts with Lai and the other eight defendants having been remanded for about 4 to 5 years.
This morning around 9:30, Lai’s wife, Li Yunqing, the husband of former Apple Daily deputy chief editor Chan Pui-man, international consular representatives, and Lai’s legal team arrived at the courthouse. Many citizens have been queuing outside the court since last Friday afternoon, hoping to attend the trial. As of this morning, nearly a hundred people had formed a long line, with the police maintaining order and more citizens joining the queue continuously.
One citizen, Ms. Wong, expressed her sadness at the cessation of Apple Daily, a newspaper she had been reading for years. She hoped that the sentencing would not be too heavy and that Lai could be released soon. She also wanted to show her support, stating, “Although unable to enter the courtroom, I still hope Mr. Lai will remain strong and healthy and know that many people are behind him.”
Mr. Leung mentioned that he did not necessarily plan to enter the courtroom but felt it was necessary as a Hong Kong citizen to care about the case and express support for press freedom. He hoped the judge would make a verdict based on conscience because the right and wrong of the situation were clear.
Lai has shown his integrity and backbone, choosing not to leave Hong Kong despite having the means to do so. Regardless of previous criticisms of Apple Daily’s stance, many believe that Lai has always acted on his beliefs and contributed significantly to Hong Kong’s journalism scene.
Regarding the case’s development, many citizens, despite the challenges posed by the Chinese government, want to witness the process as they believe history will ultimately render a fair judgment independent of any individual’s influence.
While unable to enter the courtroom, supporters like Ms. Wu hope the authorities will treat the defendants fairly and release them at the earliest. They want to express that they stand in solidarity with Lai and believe in his cause.
Many supporters have been queuing for days just to witness the trial, showing their dedication and concern for the diminishing press freedom in Hong Kong. The cumbersome process and restrictions imposed have led to criticism and frustration among Hong Kong citizens who feel their voices are being suppressed.
Ultimately, the court will decide on the sentencing after the mitigation stage. The outcome of the trial and the fate of Jimmy Lai will be observed with keen interest both domestically and internationally.