Hong Kong's High Court will deliver sentencing this week for media tycoon Jimmy Lai, a central figure in the city's landmark national security case. The 74-year-old faces prison time after being convicted in December 2025 of conspiring with foreign forces and publishing seditious materials through his now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper. ⚖️
Lai and eight co-defendants will learn their fate on February 9 at 10 a.m. local time, with proceedings expected to last one hour. The verdict follows a marathon trial spanning nearly two years, involving examination of over 2,220 pieces of evidence. 📑
Prosecutors proved Lai orchestrated campaigns urging foreign sanctions against China through his newspaper's coverage and direct lobbying of Western politicians. Evidence showed coordination with overseas contacts to publish anti-government content and organize the "One Hongkonger, One Letter to Save Hong Kong" campaign. 🌐
Over 400 public seats were available at each hearing since the trial began in December 2023, demonstrating what authorities call "transparent judicial processes." Three national security law-designated judges presided over the case, which concluded arguments in August 2025.
The sentencing marks a pivotal moment in Hong Kong's implementation of the national security law enacted in 2020. Legal experts say the outcome could influence future cases involving alleged foreign interference. 🔍
