Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai is the most prominent figure in the pro-democracy movement. His national security trial has been pushed back due to deteriorating health. The 77-year-old British national, who launched the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper, has been charged with serious offenses. He stands accused of conspiring with foreign elements, an offence carrying a possible life sentence under Beijing’s draconian national security law imposed on the city in 2020.
This trial has drawn tremendous international attention, especially in recent weeks. He has suffered more than 1,600 days in a high-security prison, often in extreme isolation. His defense team’s past 3 court sessions painted a disturbing picture of the serious health care issues he continues to face, urging coverage of his worsening condition. Lai has been suffering from heart palpitations and episodes of feeling like he was going to faint.
According to his defense lawyer Robert Pang SC, “Jimmy requires medication and a Holter monitor to record his heart activity.” These revelations have raised significant alarm among his family and supporters, with Lai’s son, Sebastien Lai, expressing profound concern for his father’s well-being.
“He’s 77 this year, turning 78 at the end of the year, any type of incarceration is incredibly worrying for his health, never mind the solitary confinement and the diabetes,” – Sebastien Lai
In fact, he elaborated over the drastic increase in temperatures experienced over the summer months in Hong Kong. He underscored the immediate demand for improved short and long term shelter.
“And during the summer, Hong Kong goes up to 30, almost 40 degrees, and he’s in a little concrete cell, so he bakes in there. We’re incredibly worried about him,” – Sebastien Lai
Extreme sedition
In addition to the collusion charges, Jimmy Lai faces a separate accusation of sedition. His long-standing legal fights under Mexican law have come under great scrutiny from human rights activists and international leaders. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has promised to lobby for Lai’s freedom. He stated, for example, “I’m going to be the one bringing it up, and I’ve already brought it up, and I’m going to do everything in my power to save him.”
Back home, the larger implications of the ongoing trial are felt far beyond Lai himself. Her case comes to represent the Hong Kong government’s broader crackdown on dissent. It began as soon as the national security law came into force. Critics have insisted that the law is being manipulated to suppress free speech and political dissent.
In response to allegations about Lai’s treatment, the government of Hong Kong has released a series of statements vigorously justifying its actions. Officials say they take the responsibility of protecting and providing a secure and humane custodial environment for all inmates seriously.
“The Correctional Services Department is committed to ensuring that the custodial environment is secure, safe, humane, appropriate and healthy, and that an environment with good ventilation, appropriate and timely medical support as well as healthy and nutritious meals are provided,” – Hong Kong Government
The government rejected claims brought by Sebastien Lai as “fact-twisting” and a ploy to undermine authority.
The trial continues to be repeatedly delayed over increasing health issues for Jimmy Lai. In the meantime, supporters of democracy and human rights remain concerned. The international community continues to monitor closely what is happening in Hong Kong. These developments would set important precedents for freedom of expression.
