Did Jimmy Lai get a fair trial? Hong Kong legal experts rebut criticism from the West
Experts say critics need to take a closer look to make an informed assessment about the landmark national security case.
The trial, conviction and sentencing of former Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai Chee-ying has become a geopolitical flashpoint between China and the West. Lai was convicted on national security charges in December 2025. Then on February 9, 2026, he was sentenced to 20 years in prison. His case has drawn criticism from Western countries and rights groups, who accused Hong Kong and mainland authorities of political persecution, suppression of free speech and not giving Lai a fair trial. But Hong Kong officials and legal experts have rejected such claims, saying critics need to take a closer look at the proceedings and the judgment.