Hong Kong Journalists Found Guilty of Sedition: Stand News Case
Two former chief editors of Stand News, a now-defunct outlet known for its coverage of the Hong Kong protests, have been found guilty of sedition in a landmark case in Hong Kong. This marks the first conviction of journalists in the city since the handover from British to Chinese rule in 1997.
Former Stand News editor-in-chief Chung Pui-kuen, 54, and former acting editor-in-chief Patrick Lam, 36, were at the center of the trial. Chung appeared in court to hear the verdict, while Lam was absent due to health reasons. The case was closely watched by former Stand News employees, ex-lawmakers, and supporters who filled the public gallery during the hearing.
The head of Hong Kong’s national security department, Steve Li, along with prosecutors, entered the courtroom to present the case against the journalists. Defense lawyers followed suit, preparing to argue the journalists’ innocence in the face of the sedition charges.
The Verdict and Sentencing
Judge Kwok Wai-kin delivered the verdict, ruling that 11 out of the 17 articles presented as evidence by the prosecution were seditious. These articles, ranging from profiles of pro-democracy candidates to commentaries by activists and journalists critical of the government, were deemed to have incited hatred against authorities.
Chung was found responsible for publishing 10 of the seditious articles, while Lam was accountable for one. The court determined that both journalists had knowingly supported the seditious intent of the content published by Stand News, using the platform to promote anti-government sentiments.
The sentencing for Chung and Lam was scheduled for September 26, with the possibility of up to two years in jail for the sedition offense. This offense, previously under the city’s colonial-era Crimes Ordinance, now falls under new security legislation that carries a maximum penalty of up to 10 years in prison.
Press Freedom Concerns and Backlash
The prosecution of Stand News and the subsequent guilty verdicts against its former editors have raised significant concerns about declining press freedoms in Hong Kong. Stand News, known for its critical reporting on the government and its coverage of the 2019 protests, faced a crackdown in December 2021 when its newsroom was raided, leading to the arrest of several individuals associated with the outlet.
The closure of Stand News and the prosecution of its journalists sparked criticism from local and international media organizations, highlighting the challenges faced by journalists in Hong Kong under the tightening grip of national security laws. The case has reignited debates about press freedom, censorship, and the role of independent media in the city.
As the sentencing date approaches, supporters of Chung and Lam, as well as advocates for press freedom, are closely monitoring the developments in the case. The outcome of this trial will have far-reaching implications for the future of journalism in Hong Kong and the ongoing struggle for free speech in the city.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
