Hong Kong court convicts democracy activist Jimmy Lai on conspiracy charges

HONG KONG — A Hong Kong court on Monday convicted prominent democracy activist and media tycoon Jimmy Lai on conspiracy charges, marking a significant development in one of the city’s most closely watched national security cases and intensifying concerns over press freedom and political dissent.

The ruling follows a lengthy trial under Beijing-imposed national security legislation, which prosecutors say was used to pursue activities deemed threatening to China’s sovereignty. Lai, the founder of the now-defunct pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily, has been held in custody since 2020 and faces the possibility of a lengthy prison sentence.

Judges said the court found sufficient evidence to support the conspiracy charges, concluding that the actions cited by prosecutors went beyond lawful expression. Lai has consistently denied the allegations, arguing that his work as a publisher and his public statements amounted to protected speech and journalism rather than criminal conduct.

The conviction comes amid heightened scrutiny of Hong Kong’s legal system since the introduction of the national security law in 2020. The legislation has been used to prosecute dozens of activists, journalists, and opposition figures, with authorities maintaining it is necessary to restore stability after the mass protests of 2019.

Supporters of Lai gathered outside the court building, while international observers closely monitored proceedings. Rights groups and foreign governments have repeatedly called for Lai’s release, warning that the case could have a chilling effect on media independence in the city.

Hong Kong officials rejected those criticisms, saying the case demonstrates the rule of law and that no one is above it. “The courts decide cases based on evidence and law,” the government said in a statement, adding that press freedom remains protected within legal limits.

Lai, a British national, has long been a vocal critic of Beijing and a symbol of Hong Kong’s pro-democracy movement. His conviction is expected to further strain relations between China and Western governments, many of which have raised concerns about political prosecutions in the territory.

Sentencing has been adjourned to a later date, with legal experts saying Lai could face years behind bars if the court opts for a maximum penalty. As the case moves toward sentencing, it is likely to fuel renewed debate over civil liberties, judicial independence, and the future of dissent in Hong Kong.