The government strongly criticized the actions of individuals from overseas who tried to pressure a senior judge, calling it a clear interference in the ongoing legal process in Hong Kong.
There were reports that Patrick Keane, a non-permanent judge at the Court of Final Appeal, faced protests during an event in Sydney. Protesters were demanding the release of Jimmy Lai, a former media mogul. Keane, who joined Hong Kong’s top court in 2023 after serving on the High Court of Australia, was subjected to this pressure.
A government spokesperson emphasized that any attempts to pressure judges or interfere with the legal process using political influence or any other means are unacceptable. Such actions undermine the rule of law in Hong Kong and must be strongly condemned.
The spokesperson highlighted that legal proceedings in Jimmy Lai’s case are still ongoing, making it inappropriate for anyone to comment on the specifics of the case or try to influence it improperly. The statement stressed that all defendants are entitled to a fair trial under Hong Kong laws, protected by the Basic Law and the Hong Kong Bill of Rights.
It is crucial to respect the independence of the judiciary and allow legal processes to proceed without external interference. The government’s response underscores the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice is served impartially in Hong Kong.
In a broader context, the incident involving Judge Keane sheds light on the challenges faced by judicial systems worldwide when external pressure is exerted. The independence of the judiciary is fundamental to a functioning democracy, and any attempts to undermine it must be addressed promptly and decisively.
The situation also underscores the complexities of balancing political interests with the need for a fair and impartial legal system. As Hong Kong continues to navigate through various legal challenges, maintaining the integrity of the judiciary remains a top priority for upholding the rule of law in the region.
In conclusion, the government’s condemnation of improper pressure on a senior judge sends a clear message that external interference in Hong Kong’s legal processes will not be tolerated. Upholding the independence of the judiciary and ensuring fair trials for all defendants are essential principles that must be safeguarded to preserve the rule of law in Hong Kong.
