Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai, founder of the now-closed Apple Daily, faces a life sentence on national security charges. Accused of colluding with foreign forces and sedition through his newspaper's criticism of the Chinese government, Lai's trial has become a symbol of Beijing's crackdown on dissent. His lawyers argued the charges undermine fundamental rights, while prosecutors called him the mastermind of a conspiracy. Three judges, not a jury, will decide the verdict, a process that could take weeks or months. Lai's health has also been a concern during the trial.
Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.
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