Jailed media tycoon Jimmy Lai testified in court about discussing sanctions with former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo during the 2019 protests in Hong Kong. Lai, who is facing charges related to colluding with foreign forces, recalled a meeting he had with Pompeo in Washington amid the unrest over an extradition bill. Prosecutors accused Lai of requesting foreign countries to impose sanctions on Beijing and Hong Kong. Lai initially denied discussing sanctions with Pompeo but later changed his statement after being shown an article from his newspaper.
During the trial, Lai also denied giving editorial direction to Apple Daily staff members and conspiring to publish seditious materials. He emphasized that there was no need for editorial policies as the newspaper’s core values aligned with those of the people of Hong Kong. Additionally, Lai refuted claims that he wanted to lead the 2019 protests, describing the allegations as “farcical” and “stupid.”
The trial, which began in December 2023, has attracted significant attention as Lai has spent over 1,000 days in custody. The proceedings are being overseen by three judges appointed by Hong Kong’s chief executive, deviating from the city’s traditional jury system. The trial is taking place under the national security law imposed by Beijing in June 2020, following a year of pro-democracy demonstrations. The legislation criminalizes subversion, secession, collusion with foreign forces, and terrorist acts, leading to a crackdown on dissent in the city.
As the trial continues, Lai’s interactions with activist Chan Tsz-wah and details of his meetings with foreign entities will be further examined. The case underscores the challenges to press freedom and civil liberties in Hong Kong under the national security law. The trial’s outcome will have implications for the future of media freedom and political dissent in the city.
