The decision was announced during a hearing at the West Kowloon Court, which took place under heavy security measures enforced by the national security law imposed by China since 2020.
The 78-year-old founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper was convicted on two counts of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and a third count of conspiracy to print and distribute seditious articles, violating local legislation. The ruling was made by a panel of three judges in a session that lasted less than ten minutes, concluding one of the most high-profile cases since the enactment of the national security law in Hong Kong.
The court ordered Lai to serve 18 of the 20 years consecutively, adding to sentences already imposed on him for other offenses, including fraud related to the misuse of Apple Daily facilities. This ruling means that Lai’s earliest possible release date is set for 2044, when he will be 96 years old, assuming he does not receive any reductions for good behavior, a possibility that is severely limited for national security convictions.
In addition to Lai, the court also sentenced six former senior executives of Apple Daily, two activists, and three companies associated with the media group. The sentences for former editorial leaders ranged from six years and nine months to ten years in prison, while the companies were fined over three million Hong Kong dollars (approximately 3.08 million Macanese patacas) each for conspiracy to collude and sedition.
The trial took place under intense police scrutiny, with over a hundred officers deployed outside the courthouse, security barriers, and the presence of an armored tactical vehicle. Representatives from several Western consulates, including those of the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union, attended the hearing, highlighting the international significance of the case.
Lai’s conviction has reignited criticism from Western governments and politicians, who view the proceedings as indicative of the decline of fundamental freedoms in Hong Kong. Washington, London, and European institutions have reiterated calls for his release and are considering diplomatic or sanctions measures. Chinese authorities and the Hong Kong government have dismissed these criticisms, accusing them of interfering in the judicial system.
