A defense lawyer revealed that Jimmy Lai, a prominent publisher and founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper, will testify in his defense in a landmark national security trial in Hong Kong. Lai, aged 76, was arrested in 2020 during a crackdown on pro-democracy protests and faces charges of colluding with foreign forces and putting out seditious publications.
His lawyer argued that the prosecution's evidence was insufficient and failed to prove Lai's intent under the 2020 security law. Despite this, judges ruled that Lai has a case to answer on all charges. Lai appeared calm after the ruling and is set to testify in his defense when the trial resumes on November 20.
The case, which has lasted over 90 days, is seen as a test for press freedom and judicial independence in Hong Kong. Since the enactment of the 2020 security law, civil liberties in the city, including press and assembly freedoms, have significantly diminished.
The prosecutors allege that Lai sought support from the United States to take actions against Beijing under the guise of fighting for freedom and democracy. Former Apple Daily executives have admitted to conspiring with Lai in this regard and await sentencing behind bars.
Despite Hong Kong's previous reputation as a bastion of media freedom in Asia, it now ranks 135th out of 180 countries and territories in the World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders.
