"Closing statements wrap up in Jimmy Lai's national security case"

### Trial Concludes for Hong Kong Media Figure Jimmy Lai

Final statements have been delivered in the national security case against pro-democracy media executive Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong.

Judges appointed by the government have now adjourned to deliberate their decision in a trial widely viewed as a significant measure of legal integrity in the city.

Lai, 77, has been detained since 2020, facing accusations of conspiracy to collaborate with foreign entities and publish inflammatory material. The charges were brought under the national security law (NSL) enacted by Beijing following widespread protests in 2019, as well as a pre-existing sedition statute from the colonial era.

Known for his vocal criticism of Beijing—a rarity among Hong Kong's business leaders—Lai has been denounced by authorities as a "traitor" and "supporter of unrest."

His case stands as one of the most prominent instances of the Hong Kong government’s enforcement of the NSL, which prohibits acts perceived as opposing authority.

Lai’s legal team and relatives have raised concerns about his health, including cardiac issues. A guilty verdict could result in a life sentence.

When asked about the timeline for a ruling, one of the three judges stated it would be issued in due course. Unlike typical trials, this case—like other NSL proceedings—is being heard by selected judges rather than a jury, diverging from Hong Kong’s standard legal process.

Prosecution and defense arguments concluded on Thursday following delays due to weather conditions and Lai’s medical condition.

Lai, wearing a beige blazer and white shirt, acknowledged attendees with smiles and gestures before being led away by officers.

Authorities allege Lai used his former publication, *Apple Daily*, and international political ties to push for sanctions against Chinese and Hong Kong officials, citing what they called sustained and deliberate efforts.

Those accused of collaboration include activist Andy Li, legal assistant Chan Tsz-wah—both of whom testified against Lai—and the Interparliamentary Alliance on China. Lai is also accused of financially supporting the group Stand with Hong Kong.

Defense lawyers argued that prosecutors did not sufficiently prove Lai conspired with named individuals to seek foreign sanctions after the NSL’s enactment. They maintained that contact with former foreign officials did not substantiate the charges.

Senior counsel Robert Pang defended Lai’s media work, stating that advocating for democracy and free expression was not equivalent to sedition.