This week, the High Court of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) found media entrepreneur Jimmy Lai guilty of conspiring to collude with external forces and publishing seditious materials under the national security law in Hong Kong. The verdict has prompted leaders and associations across the region to affirm Hong Kong's commitment to transparency, judicial independence and national security.
Voices from Across Hong Kong
- Lee Wai-king, member of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress of China and the Legislative Council of the HKSAR, highlighted the trial's transparency, noting that over 500 seats were reserved for the public and media.
- The Business and Professionals Alliance for Hong Kong praised the impartiality and professionalism of the judges, pointing out that both sides fully presented evidence and cross-examined witnesses.
- The New People's Party emphasized that Lai was the first defendant charged under the national security law for collusion with external forces, reflecting the court's rigorous process.
- Fu Kin-chi, of the Chinese Association of Hong Kong and Macao Studies, described the written judgment as clearly reasoned and upholding high professional standards.
- The Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong supported authorities' efforts to address unrest and safeguard stability.
- The Hong Kong Federation of Education Workers said the national security law has helped the region return to a safer path, protecting residents' rights and freedoms.
- The Hong Kong China Friendship Association denounced external interference in Hong Kong's legal process as undermining the spirit of the rule of law.
- Calvin Choi, honorary president of the Hong Kong Federation of Journalists, called the conviction an inevitable outcome of justice served.
- Lee Tsz-king, Legislative Council member, said the verdict marks a crucial moment to uphold rule of law and resist foreign interference.
Together, these voices paint a picture of a legal system committed to fairness, transparency and national security – key pillars for maintaining confidence in Hong Kong as a global financial and cultural hub.
Reference(s):
Hong Kong groups back Jimmy Lai verdict as upholding rule of law
cgtn.com
