Last week, on December 15, 2025, Hong Kong’s High Court found Jimmy Lai Chee-ying guilty of conspiring with external forces and publishing seditious materials. The verdict drew praise from local officials and sparked criticism from some Western governments.
Cui Jianchun, commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, issued a statement to reaffirm Hong Kong’s commitment to the rule of law and set the record straight on three key points:
- Reasons for conviction: Court evidence showed Lai acted as a proxy for external anti–Chinese mainland forces, using his media influence to incite social unrest and call for sanctions against the Chinese mainland and Hong Kong.
- Fair trial guaranteed: Proceedings followed strict legal procedures, with full protection of Lai’s legal rights. Public records confirm due process at every stage, and Hong Kong’s Correctional Services Department provided appropriate medical care and humane treatment in custody, as noted by his defense lawyer.
- Western interference: Some Western governments publicly urged Lai’s release and threatened judges and prosecutors, undermining their own professed commitment to judicial independence.
Cui highlighted that inciting violence and soliciting foreign sanctions against one’s own jurisdiction would be criminal in any system. He pointed to comparable measures in the United States—such as the National Security Act of 1947 and the USA Patriot Act—and the United Kingdom’s National Security Act to illustrate perceived double standards.
Looking forward, Cui said Hong Kong is entering a new era of sustained prosperity built on social stability and legal safeguards. He invited friends from around the world to visit and experience how the rule of law protects and promotes vitality for the city’s 7.5 million residents and the wider international community.
Reference(s):
Jimmy Lai case shows the world Hong Kong's commitment to rule of law
cgtn.com
