The verdict in the national security trial of Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai is set to be handed down next Monday, according to the judiciary.
Lai, who just turned 78 on Monday, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of conspiring to collude with foreign forces under the Beijing-imposed national security law and a third count of sedition under colonial-era legislation.
The media tycoon has allegedly used his now-shuttered Apple Daily newspaper to lobby foreign nations to impose sanctions, blockades, or other hostile activities against China and Hong Kong.
He also stands accused of stoking hatred against the authorities in Beijing and Hong Kong with 161 op-eds he allegedly wrote and published in his tabloid.
If convicted, he faces up to life in prison.
Medical concerns
The tycoon has been detained since December 2020. His children have been rallying for international support to secure his release, warning of their father’s deteriorating health while in custody.
Hong Kong authorities have denied any mistreatment of Lai while in prison, saying the media mogul has been receiving appropriate treatment and medical care during his detention.
In August, the court postponed closing arguments in Lai’s case due to a “medical issue” with his heart. Lai’s lawyers told the court that he had experienced heart palpitations during the trial.
Lai’s trial began in December 2023 and concluded in August 2025, after over 150 working days.
