Jimmy Lai, Hong Kong tycoon and democratic firebrand who stood up to China
Published on: Dec. 15, 2025, 8:38 a.m. | Source: The Economic Times
Hong Kong media tycoon and pro-democracy advocate Jimmy Lai was found guilty of colluding with foreign forces and sedition under the citys national security law, risking life imprisonment. Lai, 78, spent over five years in custody, much in solitary confinement, and has long criticized Beijing while funding pro-democracy causes. His conviction marks a major blow to Hong Kongs media freedom and democracy movement.
