US EditionHong Kong court begins hearing final arguments in Jimmy Lai’s national security trial
Jimmy Lai faces charges of colluding with foreign powers and publishing seditious materials under Hong Kong's National Security Law, risking life imprisonment if convicted.
- On August 18, 2025, a Hong Kong court began hearing closing arguments in Jimmy Lai’s trial, and he faces up to life in prison, according to reports.
- Following unrest in 2019, the law took effect in 2020 and criminalizes acts like secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign forces, authorities say.
- On August 18, Prosecutor Anthony Chau noted Lai received medication and a heart monitor as proceedings were delayed twice last week by weather and health concerns.
- A verdict by three hand-picked national security judges is expected in the coming weeks, though the exact date remains unclear.
- Beyond the courtroom, critics argue the law silences dissent, while Chinese and Hong Kong authorities claim it restored stability, and Western governments urge Lai’s release.
41 Articles
41 Articles
Priest, friend of Jimmy Lai: ‘He reminds us of what it means to be free’
A priest and longtime friend of Catholic convert and media mogul Jimmy Lai recently shared about the iron courage of his friend, who advocated for democracy and freedom in Hong Kong and has subsequently spent more than four years in solitary imprisonment while awaiting his final sentence from a Hong Kong court.
Supporters hope for deportation as trial of Jimmy Lai nears end
A Hong Kong court heard final arguments Monday in the trial against the jailed Catholic publisher Jimmy Lai, with prosecutors saying Lai’s international connections proved his “unwavering intent” to bring international sanctions against China and Hong Kong.Jimmy Lai Chee-ying arrives at the West Kowloon Magistrates' Courts, May 2020. Credit: Xinhua / Alamy Stock PhotoLai, who has been in prison since 2020, is accused of colluding with foreign po…
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