From media mogul to prisoner: Jimmy Lai convicted in Hong Kong national security trial

Lai, who has pleaded not guilty, has been in custody since 2020 and now faces a possible life sentence.

The 78-year-old founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper is expected to be sentenced early next year.

According to a court ruling cited by the BBC, Lai used Apple Daily as part of a broader campaign to lobby foreign governments to impose sanctions on Hong Kong and China.

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee welcomed the verdict, accusing Lai of abusing his media platform to undermine social stability.

“Lai has long exploited his media outlet, Apple Daily, to deliberately stir up social conflict, incite division and hatred, glorify violence, and openly call for foreign sanctions on China and Hong Kong,” Lee was quoted as saying by The South China Morning Post.

“Lai has harmed the fundamental interests of the nation and the well-being of Hong Kong residents. His actions were shameful and his intentions were malicious,” Lee said.

“The law never allows anyone — regardless of profession or background — to openly harm their own country and fellow citizens in the name of human rights, democracy and freedom,” he added.

The verdict drew international criticism, with UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper condemning the ruling.

“The UK condemns the politically motivated prosecution of Jimmy Lai that has resulted in today’s guilty verdict,” Cooper said in a statement.