Jimmy Lai's national security trial, which began in late 2023, is nearing its conclusion with closing arguments being presented. The 77-year-old media mogul faces charges of foreign collusion and seditious publication, potentially leading to life imprisonment. He has remained in solitary confinement since December 2020. Lai testified for over 50 days, emphasizing his status as a political prisoner. Critics argue his prosecution reflects Hong Kong's diminishing press freedom. Authorities maintain that the trial adheres strictly to legal standards, rejecting international reproach as interference.
Prosecutors presented a diagram depicting Lai's political connections, which included headshots of significant U.S. figures to illustrate alleged foreign collusion.
Lai described himself as a political prisoner and testified for over 50 days, addressing his political ideology and management style in court.
Antoine Bernard from Reporters Without Borders criticized Lai's treatment, highlighting the Hong Kong authorities' actions to silence a key advocate for press freedom.
Hong Kong authorities rejected outside criticism and affirmed that Lai's trial was conducted based solely on evidence in accordance with the law.
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