The High Court of the HKSAR on Monday morning (Feb. 9) sentenced Jimmy Lai, an instigator of anti-China riots in Hong Kong, to 20 years in prison. Legislative Council Member Lee Wai-wang stated that the judgment not only reflects the fairness and justice of HK's legal system but also sends a clear signal to society: any actions endangering national security will not be tolerated. Lee stressed that the evidence against Lai and his associates was overwhelming, leaving no doubt about their guilt.
"According to the court, Lai was the mastermind and principal driver behind the conspiracy, which justified a heightened starting point for his sentencing. The court's written judgment highlighted that the crimes occurred during a turbulent period in HK, following the social unrest triggered by the 2019 protests. The conspiracy, meticulously planned and involving multiple participants, was described as premeditated," Lee said.
According to Lee, the case revealed that the conspiracy leveraged online platforms to disseminate incitement articles, reaching both domestic and international audiences. Some criminal activities even extended beyond HK. The conspiracy was sustained over a long period and comprised a series of coordinated actions rather than isolated incidents. Despite the implementation of the National Security Law, Lai continued to covertly promote foreign sanctions and hostile actions against HK and the country. Even after being arrested, he and his associates persisted in advancing their criminal agenda.
"The Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council commented on the case in an article, emphasizing that Lai's actions would be considered serious crimes anywhere in the world. The office noted that the 156-day trial exposed Lai's direct solicitation of foreign interference, manipulation of media narratives, and incitement of hatred against the Central and HKSAR governments. His activities, which included encouraging illegal protests and violence, were deemed a blatant violation of the National Security Law, a severe challenge to the 'one country, two systems' principle, and a disruption to HK's constitutional order and stability," Lee added.
He further remarked on Lai's historical role in fomenting unrest. From the 2014 illegal "Occupy Central" movement to the 2019 protests, Lai, in collaboration with Western politicians, incited actions that led to chaos in HK. These events caused significant harm to public safety and devastated the local economy.
Lee believes that the ruling reinforces the authority of the National Security Law, protects HK's prosperity, and serves as a stern warning to anti-China forces locally and abroad.
Lee emphasized that HK's ability to thrive as an international financial, shipping, and trade hub depends on a stable and secure environment underpinned by the rule of law. He called on all sectors to respect the court's decision, denounce the baseless criticisms from certain Western politicians, and oppose any external interference in HK's judicial system.
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