Hong Kong media boss Jimmy Lai is guilty of national security and sedition charges. The city's High Court made this decision on Monday. This is a big step against people who disagree. It also affects freedom of the press in Hong Kong. Lai was accused of planning to harm the Chinese government. His newspaper, Apple Daily, and asking for foreign help were part of the charges. This court ruling is a very important moment.
Jimmy Lai started the popular newspaper Apple Daily. It supported democracy. He could go to prison for life. He was found guilty of planning to publish seditious content. He was also guilty of working with foreign powers. Three companies linked to Apple Daily were also found guilty. The trial lasted over two years. Three judges made the decision. Judge Esther Toh said Lai was the main person. He wanted to weaken Beijing's power. She said Lai always wanted to disrupt the CCP's rule.
The charges were made under Hong Kong's national security law. This law started in 2020. Prosecutors said Lai used Apple Daily. He also used his foreign contacts to ask for sanctions. He has been in jail since December 2020. This shows it is hard for critics in Hong Kong.
Also, Hong Kong's last big opposition party has disbanded. The Democratic Party voted to close. Leaders said they were threatened with serious problems. Lo Kin-hei, the party chair, confirmed the vote. Most members wanted to disband. This makes it harder for opposition parties in Hong Kong. Hong Kong became part of China in 1997.
Human rights groups strongly disagree with the verdict. Amnesty International said journalism is now seen as a crime. Other groups like the Committee to Protect Journalists are worried. They say this shows how dissent is suppressed. Many people see this case as a test. It shows if "one country, two systems" is still working. Observers believe this trial shows freedoms are decreasing.