International Lawyers Raise Concerns Over Jimmy Lai’s Health
A team of international lawyers has recently raised concerns over the health of media mogul Jimmy Lai, who has been detained in Hong Kong since December 2020. The lawyers have alleged that Lai, who suffers from diabetes, has been denied access to specialized medical care while in detention. They made an urgent appeal to the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Torture, Alice Edwards, highlighting the risks associated with Lai’s deteriorating health.
Lai, the founder of the now-defunct pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily, has been serving a five-year and nine-month sentence for fraud related to the lease agreement of the newspaper’s headquarters. Additionally, he faces charges of conspiring to collude with foreign forces and publishing seditious materials under the national security law, both of which carry severe penalties. Despite his ongoing trial, Lai’s health has become a significant cause for concern.
Government’s Response and Denial of Claims
The Hong Kong government has strongly condemned the allegations made by the international lawyers, as well as Lai’s son, Sebastian Lai, regarding the lack of appropriate medical treatment for Lai. The government has accused the legal team of abusing UN mechanisms and spreading false information to create trouble. They have emphasized that all correctional institutions in Hong Kong are equipped with qualified medical staff to provide basic medical services to inmates, including referrals to specialists and public hospitals when necessary.
The Correctional Services Department has reaffirmed that all inmates, including Lai, have access to adequate medical care and facilities within the prison system. They have denied the claims of Lai being deprived of specialized medical treatment or optimal care for his diabetes. The government spokesperson has reiterated that any attempt to interfere with Hong Kong’s judicial proceedings is a direct challenge to the rule of law and should be condemned.
Concerns Over Lai’s Well-Being and Treatment
Despite the government’s assurances, Lai’s legal team continues to express concerns about his deteriorating health and the lack of specialized medical care he is receiving. King’s Counsel Caoilfhionn Gallagher has emphasized that it is unlawful for a prisoner to be subjected to inhumane treatment, and states have a responsibility to protect prisoners from such harm. Gallagher has pointed out Lai’s significant weight loss and frailty, as well as his solitary confinement conditions, which limit his access to exercise and daylight.
Sebastian Lai, Jimmy Lai’s son, has also voiced his worries about his father’s well-being, stating that the treatment he is receiving in detention poses a serious risk to his health and even his life. The combination of inadequate medical care, solitary confinement, and the stressful conditions of imprisonment have raised concerns about the impact on Lai’s health and overall well-being.
In conclusion, the international lawyers’ appeal to the UN regarding Jimmy Lai’s health has brought significant attention to the conditions of his detention in Hong Kong. While the government has denied any wrongdoing and emphasized the availability of medical services within the correctional system, the concerns raised by Lai’s legal team and family members highlight the importance of ensuring proper medical care and humane treatment for all individuals in detention. The ongoing trial and imprisonment of Jimmy Lai continue to be closely monitored, with international scrutiny on the protection of his rights and well-being.
