Detained media mogul Jimmy Lai testified in court to explain the motives behind the protesters’ actions during the storming of the legislature in 2019 through his newspaper, Apple Daily. Lai, facing charges under a Beijing-imposed security law and a colonial-era law, denied accusations of inciting hatred against the Chinese and Hong Kong governments. His defense questioning is expected to last 15 days as he refutes the allegations brought against him.
During the trial, Lai addressed text messages and letters that were presented as evidence against him. He denied instructing former staff members to continue running Apple Daily until its closure, emphasizing the importance of caution due to the dangers associated with freedom of speech in the current climate. Lai also disputed claims that he asked for a list of sanctions targets, attributing the message to someone with connections to the Trump administration.
Regarding Apple Daily’s coverage of the storming of the Legislative Council in 2019, Lai clarified that his comments were not intended as editorial directions but rather as an attempt to explain the protesters’ actions. He expressed concern that the incident could harm the movement and wanted to provide insight into the mindset of the young protesters involved. Despite his sympathies towards the protesters, Lai maintained his opposition to violence and emphasized the importance of peaceful demonstrations.
In response to allegations of inciting hatred towards the central government, Lai denied any intention of promoting unlawful conduct through his articles published in Apple Daily. He stated that his goal was to encourage legal demonstrations and protect Hong Kong’s existing structure, rather than promoting anti-government sentiment. Lai’s trial, which began in December 2023, has been closely watched as a significant case under Hong Kong’s national security law imposed by Beijing in 2020.
The trial has raised questions about press freedom, freedom of speech, and the right to peaceful assembly in Hong Kong. Lai’s defense highlights the complexities of navigating these issues in a politically charged environment where dissent is increasingly met with harsh penalties. As the trial continues, the implications for media freedom and civil liberties in Hong Kong remain a point of concern for international observers and human rights advocates.