Bangkok: A Hong Kong court has sentenced billionaire and political activist Jimmy Lai to up to 20 years in prison for violating the national security law. Hong Kong's West Kowloon Magistrates' Court found the 78-year-old guilty on two counts of conspiracy with a foreign power and one count of disseminating sedition. Having already served two years, Lai is required to serve the remaining 18 years of his sentence.
According to Thai News Agency, the ruling is seen as a life sentence by lawyers and pro-democracy activists, considering Lai's advanced age and health condition. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed the matter with Chinese President Xi Jinping last month during a visit to China, highlighting Lai's status as a British citizen. Despite efforts from Lai's legal team to have the sentence reduced on humanitarian grounds, the court maintained its decision.
China's state-run CCTV described Lai as an instigator of anti-China riots. Besides Lai, several individuals linked to his Apple Daily newspaper, including former employees, received prison sentences ranging from six to ten years.
Hong Kong Police Commissioner Steve Lee remarked that the sentence was appropriate and suggested that claims about Lai's health were overstated.