China Pushes Back Against Foreign Criticism Over Jimmy Lai Court Verdict

Post by : Saif Nasser

China has strongly rejected criticism from foreign governments following the guilty verdict against Hong Kong media tycoon and pro-democracy figure Jimmy Lai. Beijing said it was deeply dissatisfied with what it called unfair comments and attacks on Hong Kong’s judicial system.

Speaking on Monday, China’s foreign ministry said some countries were making irresponsible remarks about the case and interfering in China’s internal affairs. While the ministry did not name any specific country, it urged all governments to respect China’s sovereignty and the legal system in Hong Kong.

Jimmy Lai, the founder of the now-closed pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily, was found guilty by Hong Kong’s High Court of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces. The case is the most high-profile trial so far under the national security law imposed by Beijing in 2020. The conviction could result in a life sentence.

Chinese officials said the verdict was based on law and evidence, and that Hong Kong’s courts remain independent and professional. Foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said other countries should not comment on court cases in Hong Kong or try to influence judicial decisions in any way.

The verdict has drawn sharp criticism from several Western governments and human rights groups. They argue that the national security law is being used to silence political opposition and restrict freedom of speech in Hong Kong. Supporters of Jimmy Lai describe him as a political prisoner and say the trial shows the erosion of civil liberties in the city.

China has repeatedly rejected these claims. Officials insist that the national security law only targets a small number of people who threaten national security, and that most residents continue to enjoy rights and freedoms under the “one country, two systems” framework.

Beijing also stressed that Hong Kong is a part of China and that its legal matters are purely domestic issues. It warned that continued criticism could damage relations and called on foreign governments to stop what it sees as political interference.

The case of Jimmy Lai has become a symbol of the wider debate over Hong Kong’s future. While China views the verdict as a matter of law and order, critics see it as a turning point that reflects tighter control by Beijing. As international reactions continue, the case is likely to remain a major source of tension between China and the West.