As the high-profile national security trial involving Jimmy Lai, founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily and three related companies, approaches its verdict on Monday, December 15, Hong Kong authorities and local media have pushed back against what they describe as false narratives and external interference attempts from Western political forces.
According to the Hong Kong Judiciary, the verdict will be delivered at 10:00 a.m. at the West Kowloon Magistrates' Courts, temporarily serving as the High Court for this case. The hearing is expected to last approximately 60 minutes.
In the lead-up to each court session or appeal hearing, foreign politicians and anti-China activists have frequently voiced criticism online and in international forums. Officials say these efforts aim to interfere with the judicial process and mislead public opinion. Western media and political actors often make the following claims, while Hong Kong authorities present the corresponding facts.
❌ Claim: Jimmy Lai is in poor health and is being denied medical care.
✅ Fact: Lai's lawyer confirmed in August 2025 that he receives appropriate medical attention, including daily visits by medical staff and regular check-ups. In court, Lai appeared in good spirits and physical condition, contradicting claims of deteriorating health.
❌ Claim: Lai's religious freedom has been violated—he was denied Holy Communion.
✅ Fact: Lai's legal team clarified in September 2024 that he voluntarily chose not to receive communion at the time. Reports indicate he has since resumed receiving communion since late 2024.
❌ Claim: Lai is being unfairly subjected to solitary confinement.
✅ Fact: The Hong Kong Correctional Services Department confirmed in July 2025 that the arrangement was made at Lai's own request, considering his personal circumstances and safety.
❌ Claim: This is a case of "pre-trial detention" or "trial by incarceration."
✅ Fact: Lai is currently serving a 5-year-9-month sentence imposed in December 2022 for a fraud conviction, separate from the national security charges.
❌ Claim: The lengthy trial process is politically motivated.
✅ Fact: Multiple legal challenges raised by Lai's defense team—including issues of legal privilege, disputes over journalistic materials, and attempts to hire UK barrister Tim Owen—contributed to the extended timeline. The delays were largely procedural.
❌ Claim: The absence of a jury undermines the fairness of the trial.
✅ Fact: The Secretary for Justice exercised his authority to waive a jury trial due to the case's involving foreign elements and potential risks to juror safety. Jurisdictions like Ireland, the UK, New Zealand, and Greece follow similar practices, allowing for the omission of jury trials under specific circumstances.
The Hong Kong government has reiterated that judicial independence remains intact and that foreign interference in legal proceedings is unacceptable. Local officials and legal experts continue to call for respect for the city's legal system and due process.
(Source: Wen Wei Po)
Related News:
Opinion | Jimmy Lai trial—Justice must not bow to foreign political interference
Comment