Jimmy Lai’s sentence sparks international concernAP, HONG KONGThe sentencing yesterday of former Hong Kong media magnate Jimmy Lai (黎智英) raised concerns from international governments, while Chinese and Hong Kong authorities defended it, saying it reflected the spirit of the rule of law. “It signifies the total destruction of the Hong Kong legal system and the end of justice,” he said. “This outcome highlights how the vague and overly broad provisions of Hong Kong’s national security legislation can lead to being interpreted and enforced in violation of Hong Kong’s international human rights obligations,” Turk said. The judicial cases are purely Hong Kong’s internal affairs, Lin said, urging “relevant countries” to avoid interfering in Hong Kong’s judicial affairs or China’s internal affairs. Beijing’s office in Hong Kong affairs said Lai’s sentence reflected Hong Kong’s determination in safeguarding national security and demonstrated the spirit of the rule of law.

Source: Taipei Times February 09, 2026 17:12 UTC