Shiu Ka-fai, a Legislative Council Member, issued a statement on the Jimmy Lai case today (Feb. 7).
The full text is below:
Jimmy Lai, founder of Next Digital, was charged with two counts of "conspiracy to collude with foreign country or with external elements to endanger national security" and one count of "conspiracy to publish seditious publications." Following a trial, he was found guilty, and the court will deliver its sentence on Monday (Feb. 9). The Liberal Party fully supports the judiciary in imposing appropriate sentences on those found guilty in accordance with the law.
Over the years, Jimmy Lai has continuously engaged in separatist activities, colluded with foreign anti-China forces, undermined Hong Kong's prosperity and stability, and endangered national sovereignty and security. He is the principal mastermind and participant in a series of incidents aimed at undermining China's interests and destabilizing Hong Kong, an agent and vanguard of anti-China forces, and the "mastermind" behind these activities. The evidence of his crimes is conclusive. The Liberal Party believes that Jimmy Lai has seriously violated the Hong Kong National Security Law and other criminal ordinances, causing significant harm to national security. He must bear corresponding legal responsibility and accept punishment in accordance with the law.
However, certain Western politicians and media outlets, while claiming to respect the rule of law and judicial independence, have frequently interfered in and smeared the Jimmy Lai case. They have even fabricated rumors, for example, about his "poor health" and "lack of proper medical services" in prison, attempting to influence court proceedings and mislead the public. We express strong opposition and condemnation of such double standards and malicious acts with ulterior motives.
In fact, the case underwent 165 days of fair and open trial. The court made its guilty verdict based on sufficient evidence and in accordance with the law. The entire trial process was open and transparent, with extensive consideration of a large amount of evidence and legal provisions, ultimately resulting in a just and reasonable judgment. Hong Kong is a society governed by the rule of law, and safeguarding national security is a matter of course. The SAR's exercise of law enforcement, prosecution, and judicial powers over the Lai case in accordance with the Hong Kong National Security Law and other laws is a legitimate act that demonstrates the rule of law, is perfectly justified, and beyond reproach. The lawful conviction and sentencing of Lai is an important manifestation of safeguarding national security, implementing the Hong Kong National Security Law, and demonstrating the rule of law in Hong Kong. It is of great significance for preventing, stopping, and punishing acts endangering national security, as well as upholding the authority of the rule of law. Since the implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law, its effectiveness has been evident for all to see and has been widely recognized by the international community. We have full confidence that the court will deliver a sentence that reflects the gravity of the offenses and serves the interests of justice.
Security is the prerequisite for development. Only when national security is effectively guaranteed can the business environment be maintained and consolidated. The Hong Kong SAR Government is determined to safeguard national security, and external interference will not succeed. The Liberal Party will continue to unite all sectors of society and work with the SAR Government to steadfastly safeguard national sovereignty, security, and development interests, commit to maintaining Hong Kong's prosperity and stability, and ensure the steady and enduring practice of "One Country, Two Systems."
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