Hong Kong Activists Demand Release of Jimmy Lai Amid Ongoing Trial

Hong Kong activists gathered in Taipei on March 15, 2024, calling for the immediate release of pro-democracy advocate Jimmy Lai, who has been imprisoned for over 1,700 days under charges of colluding with foreign forces. The rally took place in the bustling Ximending shopping district, where members of the civic group known as the Hong Kong Outlanders expressed their support during the closing arguments of Lai’s trial.

Lee Ming-che, a Taiwanese human rights advocate who himself faced imprisonment in China, highlighted the implications of Hong Kong’s National Security Law on judicial proceedings. He stated that the law was designed to allow Beijing to exert direct control over politically sensitive cases, asserting that any matter deemed a threat to national security is assigned to judges selected by Hong Kong’s chief executive. This arrangement, he argued, undermines the fundamental principles of justice.

Lai’s case, which revolves around freedom of speech, has faced disproportionate scrutiny, according to Lee. He pointed out that while jury trials have historically been a hallmark of Hong Kong’s legal system, Lai’s trial was conducted without a jury due to the nature of the charges against him. In 2022, the Court of Final Appeals had granted Lai the right to engage an overseas barrister, but the Hong Kong government sought a legal interpretation from the National People’s Congress Standing Committee in Beijing, effectively reversing the court’s decision.

Lee criticized this intervention, asserting that it represents a severe erosion of judicial independence in Hong Kong. He stated, “The fundamental judicial independence was entirely obliterated when an executive body could overturn a court ruling without being subject to judicial review.”

Amidst these developments, Lai has endured prolonged solitary confinement, which rights advocates argue violates international standards. According to the UN Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, known as the Nelson Mandela Rules, solitary confinement should only be employed in exceptional circumstances and for limited durations. Lee emphasized that confinement lasting more than 15 consecutive days constitutes cruel punishment.

The director-general of the Taiwan-Hong Kong Association, Sang Pu, recounted a personal conversation with Lai about his aspirations. When asked where he would go if forced to leave Hong Kong, Lai indicated he would choose Taiwan, yet he expressed a commitment to remain with his cause, stating, “I am a captain, and a captain would not abandon his ship.”

Sang noted that Lai dreams of a democratic future for both China and Hong Kong, underscoring that his dedication to these aspirations does not diminish his support for Taiwan or his opposition to the Chinese Communist Party’s influence in the region. Despite the severity of the charges against Lai, which could lead to harsh penalties, Sang remained optimistic. He urged the Taiwanese public and the international community to continue advocating for Lai’s release, emphasizing the importance of solidarity in the fight for democracy.

The ongoing situation surrounding Lai’s trial has drawn international attention, raising questions about the state of human rights and judicial independence in Hong Kong. Activists remain determined to amplify their message, underscoring the need for continued global advocacy in support of democratic principles.