In a recent interview, Mr. Wilson Shum Ho-kit, HKSAR Deputy to the National People's Congress, expressed firm support for the 20-year prison sentence handed down to Jimmy Lai, calling it a reflection of the seriousness of the case and a demonstration of the city's judicial independence.
According to Shum, the court's decision to sentence Lai to 20 years, despite the maximum penalty under the law being life imprisonment, demonstrates a balanced approach. He emphasized that the court took into account various factors, including Lai's mitigation plea, before arriving at the sentence.
"This proves that HK courts conduct independent trials, and all decisions are based on law and evidence," Shum said. "I fully support this verdict."
Shum underscored the broader implications of the case, pointing out that it sends a strong message both domestically and internationally regarding HK's commitment to safeguarding national security.
"HK has the resolve, and now also has sufficient legal provisions, to protect our national security. This is our bottom line," he stated. He warned that any acts endangering national security will be met with strict enforcement of the law and severe penalties, highlighting that the case establishes a clear "red line" that no one should cross.
When asked about criticism from international media suggesting that Lai's conviction undermines press freedom, Shum dismissed the claims as unfounded and accused critics of applying double standards.
"In all or most countries, press freedom is not an absolute right," he said. "Press freedom is protected under HK's Basic Law, but when it conflicts with national security, or when someone uses it as a pretense to endanger national security, this is absolutely unacceptable."
He further argued that the case should not be linked to press freedom, emphasizing that human rights and freedoms cannot be used as a shield for illegal acts.
On the topic of legal regulation, he expressed confidence in HK's current safeguards against collusion with external forces. However, he acknowledged potential gaps in addressing fake news, noting that legislation on this issue remains under consideration.
"There may still be some legal loopholes, and I hope the government will study whether appropriate laws are necessary to close them," he said.
Responding to concerns among some citizens and media outlets, Shum reassured the public that HK is safer following the enactment of the National Security Law and other related measures.
"As long as people do not engage in acts that endanger national security, their human rights and freedoms are fully protected," he said. "With these laws in place, people should feel even safer and have no reason for any doubts."
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