Jimmy Lai Testifies in Hong Kong Collusion Trial

Jimmy Lai, the jailed founder of Hong Kong's pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily, testified for the first time in his collusion trial, asserting that his publication championed democracy and freedom. Facing serious charges of colluding with foreign powers to undermine national security, Lai emphasized his commitment to informing the public and supporting democratic values, including rule of law and freedom of speech. He attributed his motivation to start the newspaper to the 1989 Tiananmen crackdown and stated his opposition to violence, distancing himself from calls for Hong Kong independence. Lai's trial, which has drawn significant international attention, could set a precedent under the national security law imposed by Beijing in 2020. His testimony occurs against the backdrop of escalating concerns over Hong Kong's political freedoms and the treatment of dissidents. Western governments and human rights groups continue to advocate for Lai's release, highlighting his symbolic role in the fight for press freedom in the region.