Dec 19: Founder of Apple Daily, Jimmy Lai, and three Apple companies continue their trial on charges of conspiring with foreign forces and publishing seditious publications. Yesterday, the defense argued that the prosecution's addition of sedition charges exceeded the time limit for prosecution. Today, they added that the prosecution should have timely initiated charges due to the six-month limit for sedition offenses. The prosecution contends that the conspiracy was ongoing, citing over 160 seditious publications released by Lai within two years. The judge will rule on the legal dispute this Friday.

Legal dispute arises as the six-month time limit for sedition offenses becomes a focal point in the trial of Jimmy Lai and the Apple Daily companies. Defense argues charges exceed the limit, questioning court jurisdiction. Prosecution contends ongoing conspiracy justifies charges. Ruling expected Friday. #JimmyLai #AppleDaily #Trial #LegalDispute #SeditionCharges

華郵：李宇軒中國拘留期間遭虐待 返港後指證黎智英

《華盛頓郵報》今（18日）發表獨家調查報道，指「12港人案」之一的李宇軒被中國拘留期間遭虐待，日間被迫盤腿坐在混凝土櫈子，晚上在不同時間突然被叫醒。報道引述7位知情人士表示，從李宇軒的牢房一直能聽到尖叫聲。李宇軒返港後，成為證人指證《壹傳媒》創辦人黎智英。

《華郵》引述多位知情人士透露，「12港人」被送到深圳鹽田看守所後，被分開關押在單人牢房，有兩名警衛輪流24小時監視他們，即使上廁所也要監視，牢房內燈光一直開着。

報道形容，他們通常不准在牢房內四處走動。除了吃飯和審訊，白天他們被迫盤腿坐在混凝土凳子上，直到關節變得疼痛。

到了晚上，他們會在毫無明顯原因的情況下在不同的時間被叫醒，亦從未被允許外出。

熟悉情況的人士表示，在最初的幾個月裏，審訊是毫不停歇的，如果他們不詳細描述他們的逃跑的情況，警衛會威脅將他們送到新疆。

李宇軒在2021年3月22日在中國刑滿出獄，同日由深圳移交香港警方，並送往小欖精神病中心，他被控「串謀勾結外國勢力或者境外勢力危害國家安全」等罪名。案情指他與《壹傳媒》創辦人黎智英、黎的助手Mark Simon以及劉祖迪等人，在2019年反修例運動期間，控制「重光團隊」呼籲外國制裁中國和香港。

《華郵》披露，報道內容根據香港、中國的法庭文件、由《華郵》獲得或審閱的監獄監視錄像和信件、訪問多位被中國拘留的人、以及與接近李宇軒和黎智英的人的訪談。他們表示，同意接受採訪因為擔心這個案件將被用來重新編寫2019年香港抗議活動的敘述，並希望有一個事實的歷史記錄。

#李宇軒 #12港人 #黎智英 #陽光司法 #JimmyLai #蘋果日報 #AppleDaily #新聞自由無價 #守護真相 #撐蘋果 #壹傳媒 #滅聲

報導：光傳媒 Photon Media www.photonmedia.net

Dec 18: According to an exclusive investigation by The Washington Post, Andy Li Yu-hin, one of the "12 Hong Kongers," may have been coerced into accusing Jimmy Lai, the founder of Apple Daily. During his detention in China, Li Yu-hin faced torture and harsh conditions. He was forced to sit on a concrete stool for prolonged periods and experienced sleep deprivation. Upon his return to Hong Kong, Li Yu-hin's testimony implicating Jimmy Lai raises concerns about the potential influence and pressure exerted on him. This case sheds light on the ongoing complexities surrounding the 2019 Hong Kong protests. #HongKong #12HongKongers #JimmyLai #AppleDaily #PressFreedom #Coercion #HumanRights #PhotonMedia

Dec 22:Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai's incitement charges not time-barred. Case continues in January 2024.

The case against Jimmy Lai has had a significant impact on press freedom in Hong Kong. Lai's arrest and subsequent prosecution are seen by many as part of a broader crackdown on dissent and independent journalism in the region. The charges of "conspiring with foreign forces" and incitement have created a climate of fear among journalists, leading to self-censorship and a chilling effect on media outlets. The closure of Lai's popular newspaper, Apple Daily, further diminishes the diversity of voices and independent reporting in Hong Kong. Overall, the case has raised concerns about the erosion of press freedom and freedom of expression in the city.

#HHongKong #JimmyLai #AppleDaily

Media mogul Jimmy Lai, founder of Next Digital and Apple Daily, faces charges of "collusion with foreign forces" and other offenses. Prosecutors claim Lai used his media platform to incite hatred against the Hong Kong government and China. The case involves 161 articles, including Lai's columns and Apple Daily reports, urging protests and international sanctions against China. Prosecutors allege Lai contacted foreign politicians, including former US Vice President Pence and Secretary of State Pompeo, seeking sanctions. Lai pleads not guilty.

Charges against Jimmy Lai for "collusion with foreign forces" are seen as baseless, stifling dissent and freedom of speech. Targeting prominent figures like Lai undermines democracy and human rights. We must condemn attempts to silence dissent. #JimmyLai #FreedomOfExpression #AppleDaily #HongKong

Jan 3: on day 5 of #JimmyLai's trial, prosecutors claiming he directed #AppleDaily's English edition to promote "yellow" viewpoints and seek foreign sanctions. They mention Lai's Twitter account, where he followed figures like Tsai Ing-wen and Mike Pence. The judge questioned the relevance, but prosecutors argue it shows Lai's connections and state of mind. Critics see these charges as an attack on free expression.

Jimmy Lai's trial highlights the concerning reality that having a Twitter account can now be used against individuals in prosecutions. The case underscores the potential risks individuals face for expressing their viewpoints and connecting with others on social media platforms. #FreedomOfExpression #freehk #freepoliticalprisoners

Jan 4: On the 6th day of the #JimmyLai case, the prosecution alleges that he is the mastermind behind the "Stand with Hong Kong (SWHK)" team, supporting global advocacy and international alliances. They claim Lai provided financial support and instructed individuals to organize the "Global Call for Action" campaign, urging foreign pressure on China. The team established connections with the US, UK, and Japan to lobby for sanctions. Lai transferred over HKD 118 million to his assistant and donated over HKD 93 million to pro-democracy figures and parties. Trial adjourned until Monday with reduced witness count. #HongKong #FreePoliticalPrisoners

Jan 8: day 7 of the trial, Founder of Next Digital, Jimmy Lai, and three related companies including Apple Daily, are charged with conspiring with foreign forces and inciting secession in Hong Kong. Prosecution presented evidence of email correspondence between Lai and several former US officials. These charges not only raise concerns about the criminalization of contact with foreign officials but also undermine freedom of expression in Hong Kong. The trial continues. #HongKong #JimmyLai #AppleDaily #FreedomOfExpression

Jan 10 Jimmy Lai's trial: Prosecution presents financial investigation details, including suspicious transactions and alleged funding of political organizations. Lai is charged with 'colluding with foreign forces' and other offenses. Defense questions the exaggerated language in the police testimony. The judge emphasizes the court's role in determining the conclusions. Trial to resume next Tuesday with expert witness testimonies. #JimmyLai #freePoliticalprisoners

Latest report by the Committee to Protect Journalists reveals that 320 journalists worldwide are currently imprisoned, with China topping the list at 44 journalists in detention. The report also highlights the situation in Hong Kong, where the cases of detained journalists continue to face significant delays in processing. The prolonged detention of media mogul Jimmy Lai under the national security law is a stark example. Press freedom remains under threat. #PressFreedom #JournalistsBehindBars #HongKong #China #JimmyLai

Founder of Apple Daily, Jimmy Lai, and related companies face "conspiring with foreign forces" charges. Former vice president Chan Pui-man testifies, highlighting Lai's COVID-19 concerns and news influence.

A column by Lai in April 2020 was presented, mentioned "the courage to do what we know we can't".

Chan also admires those persisting for democracy. Trial adjourns till Feb 19. #AppleDaily #JimmyLai #PressFreedom #HongKong #Democracy

Jimmy Lai, founder of Next Digital and related companies, continues trial on charges of "conspiring with foreign forces." Former Apple Daily deputy chief editor, Chan Pui-man, testifies, revealing chaos within the company at the time of her resignation. She approved the printing of the final Apple Daily issue, with 1 million copies, despite feeling awkward about her role. Chan agrees with Lai's democratic values but claims her news judgment remains independent. Trial to resume on Wednesday. #JimmyLai #AppleDaily #Trial

During the trial, Jimmy Lai, founder of Apple Daily, revealed that he was not concerned about the possibility of his arrest. Lai expressed his belief that if he were to be apprehended, it would serve as evidence of the Chinese Communist Party's suppression of human rights and press freedom. He further stated his confidence that countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and Europe would not stand idly by in such a scenario. The trial continues to unfold. #JimmyLai #AppleDaily #FreePoliticalPrisoners #PressFreedom

Jimmy Lai, founder of Next Digital and Apple Daily, along with three related companies, faces charges of conspiring with foreign forces. During the 54th day of trial, witness Li Yuxuan reveals communication with UK Conservative Party member Peillun De before the National Security Law came into effect. Discussions revolve around utilizing Hong Kong to "topple the CCP," and Li acknowledges Hong Kong's willingness to play that role. He clarifies that "toppling" refers to causing chaos and confirms his willingness to bear the consequences. Li also emphasizes that their primary goal is to establish Hong Kong, with "toppling the CCP" being secondary or merely a means to "liberate Hong Kong." The trial adjourns until April 8.

#JimmyLai #NationalSecurityLaw #HongKong #NextDigital #AppleDaily

Art by 淋漓淋浪 @lumli_lumlong

#黎智英 #JimmyLai #蘋果日報 #AppleDaily #新聞自由無價 #守護真相 #撐蘋果 #壹傳媒 #滅聲 #欲加之罪

Amnesty International Recognizes Three Activists as Prisoners of Conscience

Amnesty International has designated three human rights defenders—Chow Hang-tung, Ding Jiaxi, and Jimmy Lai—as prisoners of conscience. They are imprisoned solely for their peaceful activism.

#ChowHangtung: Jailed for a vigil honoring Tiananmen victims; facing 10 years for “inciting subversion” under the National Security Law.

#Ding Jiaxi: Sentenced to 12 years for “subverting state power” after attending a discussion on current affairs, enduring torture during detention.

#JimmyLai: Media advocate facing life imprisonment for "colluding with foreign forces" under the National Security Law; already serving multiple sentences for peaceful protests.

Sarah Brooks from Amnesty highlights the Chinese government's ongoing repression of dissent. We call for the immediate release of these activists!

#politicalprisoner #AmnestyInternational

大赦國際承認三位活動人士為良心犯

中文:
大赦國際已將三位人權捍衛者——周漢彤、丁家喜和黎智英——指定為良心犯。他們因和平行動而被監禁。

#周漢彤：因紀念天安門受害者的燭光 vigil 被監禁；面臨10年“煽動顛覆”的刑期。

#丁家喜：因“顛覆國家政權”被判12年，並在拘留期間遭受酷刑。

#黎智英：媒體倡導者，因“勾結外國勢力”面臨終身監禁；已因和平抗議被判多次刑期。

大赦國際的莎拉·布魯克斯強調中國政府對異議的持續壓制。我們呼籲立即釋放這些活動人士！

https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2024/10/china-hong-kong-amnesty-international-recognizes-three-activists-as-prisoners-of-conscience/

黎智英控告《大公報》誹謗案最新進展

壹傳媒創辦人黎智英於2020年向高等法院入稟，控告《大公報》發布誹謗文章，稱其欲棄保潛逃。黎智英要求禁制該報誹謗、道歉及賠償。然而，黎方申請設陪審團的要求被法官駁回，理由是案件涉及複雜的法律及事實議題，並不適合由陪審團處理。

法官指出，主審法官可先閱讀相關文件，進一步考慮雙方陳詞，從而縮短審訊時間。黎智英還需向《大公報》支付30萬元訟費。

這樣的判決顯示，為了達到想要的結果，法院在與黎智英相關的案件中不會使用陪審團。

#黎智英 #大公報 #言論自由 #公正司法 #香港 #法律 #人權 #民主

Jimmy Lai, founder of Next Media, filed a defamation lawsuit against Ta Kung Pao in 2020 over an article alleging he intended to abscond. Lai sought a court order to prohibit the defamation, as well as an apology and damages. However, his request for a jury trial was denied by the judge, citing the case's complex legal and factual issues.

The judge noted that the presiding judge could review the documents in advance, allowing for a more efficient trial process. Lai is also required to pay HK$300,000 in legal costs to Ta Kung Pao.

This ruling indicates that to achieve the desired outcome, the court will not use a jury in any cases related to Jimmy Lai.

#JimmyLai #freepoliticalprisoners #FreedomOfExpression #HumanRights

David Lammy出訪中國，將關注黎智英案件?

外務大臣大衛·蘭米（David Lammy）訪問中國，外界猜測他會「提出」黎智英的案件。黎智英，作為英國公民，自四年前在香港入獄以來尚未完成多次審判。儘管外務部要求對其進行領事訪問，中國以不承認雙重國籍為由拒絕，違反1997年英中協議。

黎智英因涉嫌違反國安法等罪名被捕，現年76歲的他在單獨監禁中健康惡化。最近，香港法院的上訴小組拒絕了他的上訴，認為其待遇不違反基本人權，這反映出香港司法系統在中國共產黨的壓力下運作。

如同香港自由委員會所言，蘭米應把握機會成為真正的國家元首，呼籲國際社會關注此事！

David Lammy's Visit to China: Will He Address Jimmy Lai's Case?

As Foreign Secretary David Lammy visits China, speculation grows about whether he will 'raise' Jimmy Lai's case. Lai, a British citizen, has been imprisoned in Hong Kong for four years without completing his trials. The Foreign Office's request for consular access was denied by China, citing non-recognition of dual citizenship, violating the 1997 Anglo-Hong Kong Agreement.

Lai faces charges under the National Security Law and is in solitary confinement at 76, with deteriorating health. Recently, a Hong Kong appeals panel rejected his appeal, claiming his treatment does not violate fundamental human rights, highlighting the pressure on the Hong Kong judiciary.

As the Committee for Freedom in Hong Kong Foundation states, Lammy has the chance to be a true statesman and should urge the international community to pay attention!

#黎智英 #JimmyLai #香港 #HongKong #人權 #HumanRights #英國 #UK #自由 #Freedom

https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/why-wont-david-lammy-help-jimmy-lai/