“Unjust and Tragic”: US, UK React to Media Tycoon Jimmy Lai’s Imprisonment

Global condemnation has followed the sentencing of Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai to 20 years in prison under the city’s national security law, a decision critics say marks a severe blow to press freedom and civil liberties.

Toughest Sentence Under National Security Law

A Hong Kong court sentenced the 78-year-old pro-democracy publisher after convicting him on national security and sedition charges. The court described his actions as “grave” and “premeditated,” calling the verdict the harshest imposed under the controversial law.

Lai, founder of the now-shuttered Apple Daily newspaper, was long known for his outspoken criticism of Beijing and support for democratic values. Authorities say his activities threatened national security, while supporters argue he was punished for exercising free speech.

According to international reports, the sentence makes him ineligible for parole until his late 90s, effectively amounting to life imprisonment.

US, UK and Global Outcry

The ruling triggered swift reactions from Western governments and rights groups. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the verdict as “tragic and unjust” and urged Hong Kong authorities to grant humanitarian parole.

UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said the case was politically motivated and raised directly with Chinese President Xi Jinping during Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to China. She reiterated Britain’s commitment to the Sino-British Joint Declaration and called for Lai’s immediate release.

Amnesty International and several media organisations labelled the verdict a “grim milestone” for Hong Kong’s autonomy and press freedom. Meanwhile, China’s foreign ministry defended the ruling as lawful and justified.

Family’s Plea and Fears Over Health

Lai’s son, Sebastien Lai, described the sentence as “basically a death sentence,” citing his father’s age and deteriorating health. He said Lai was being punished for defending Hong Kong’s freedoms and urged the international community to intensify pressure on Beijing.

Speaking to British media, Sebastien said his father deserved liberty after decades of championing democratic values. UK officials have pledged to “rapidly engage” with China in pursuit of his release on humanitarian grounds.

Supporters who gathered outside the courthouse during sentencing echoed these concerns, warning that the verdict sends a chilling message to journalists and activists across the region.

(With inputs from ANI)