Trump Urges Release of Jimmy Lai Amid Controversial Sentencing
On Monday, former President Donald Trump revealed that he had asked Chinese leader Xi Jinping to consider releasing pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai. Lai, a prominent media figure from Hong Kong, was convicted that day of “collusion with a foreign power” and is currently awaiting sentencing.
In a conversation with reporters, Trump expressed his concerns for Lai, stating, “I feel very bad. I have talked to President Xi about this matter and asked him to consider releasing me.” He emphasized Lai’s age and deteriorating health as key reasons for his appeal.
Trump did not specify exactly when he made his request to Xi. Their last significant conversation took place on November 24, and since then, communication appears to have been less structured. Trump had mentioned informing Xi last week about decisions regarding advanced computer chip sales from Nvidia to China.
During a meeting in early November, Trump had reportedly voiced similar concerns regarding Lai’s well-being and suggested that releasing him could help improve relations between the U.S. and China. While Xi acknowledged Trump’s request, no further responses were noted, according to sources familiar with the discussion.
Jimmy Lai, who is 78, has been a staunch advocate for democracy and was previously the owner of the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper. He has been incarcerated since December 2020, despite facing significant health issues.
On Monday, Lai was formally convicted on charges of “collusion with foreign governments” under the stringent National Security Law imposed by China, which critics say is designed to suppress dissent. Lai has been vocal against the Hong Kong government’s handling of the 2019 pro-democracy protests, and the law allows broad interpretations of what constitutes “incitement” or “collusion.”
In delivering the sentence, Judge Esther To remarked that there was “no question” Lai harbored resentment toward the Chinese government, citing his repeated calls for U.S. intervention.
Lai was also convicted for publishing “inflammatory content” in his newspaper. His legal team noted that the length of the sentence was unexpected, and they would need time to evaluate their options for an appeal.
Lai’s family expressed disappointment but not surprise at the verdict, having been advised that it was anticipated. His niece, Erica Repp, lamented, “I feel like my uncle was made an example of… the whole of Hong Kong is sad.” Meanwhile, his son, Sebastian Lai, criticized the ruling, suggesting it illustrates how national security laws can be manipulated against dissenters.
In a written statement, Lai’s daughter, Claire, reaffirmed their belief in his innocence and called the verdict a miscarriage of justice, highlighting the government’s fear of his influence even in his current weakened state.
The ruling has drawn condemnation from various human rights organizations and governments, including the UK, which regards Lai as a citizen. British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper condemned the “politically motivated prosecution” and called for Lai’s immediate release.
Sebastian Lai urged the British government to prioritize his father’s release in any discussions aimed at improving relations with China. He remarked, “Time is ticking. My father’s health is rapidly deteriorating,” detailing the harsh conditions of his confinement and health issues he faces.
As Sebastian pointed out, the UK’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer is scheduled to meet Xi next month. He emphasized that the unjust imprisonment of British nationals complicates the path toward trust and meaningful dialogue.
