The national security trial of Jimmy Lai has been delayed for medical treatment as the 77-year-old media mogul experiences health issues, including heart palpitations. Detained since 2020 on charges including foreign collusion, Lai has pleaded not guilty to allegations of advocating sanctions and separatism. His trial has faced international condemnation, while the Hong Kong government has dismissed these criticisms as slander. Concerns about Lai's health have been raised by his legal representatives, and the trial has been ongoing for over 140 days, reflecting tensions surrounding pro-democracy activism in Hong Kong.
Lai, 77, has been detained since 2020, largely in solitary confinement, on convictions related to the 2019 pro-democracy protests, and on remand for the national security trial.
Judge Esther Toh said Lai had not received medication and a heart monitor, as recommended by a medical specialist, so the three-judge panel overseeing the jury-free trial adjourned the case until Monday.
Lai has pleaded not guilty, denying calling for sanctions against China and Hong Kong and stating he never advocated separatism.
The Hong Kong government has rejected criticism of its prosecution of Lai and other pro-democracy activists, labeling it slanderous remarks by external forces and anti-China media.
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