David Awoyode
Sebastien Lai, the son of jailed Hong Kong pro-democracy leader Jimmy Lai, says his father remains “strong in spirit” as closing arguments in his long-running national security trial continue. Speaking on EWTN’s The World Over with Raymond Arroyo on Aug. 21, he stressed that his father is “still fighting” despite poor health and solitary confinement.
Jimmy Lai’s Ongoing Trial
Jimmy Lai — Catholic billionaire, publisher, and founder of the pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily — has been on trial since 2023 under Hong Kong’s national security law imposed by Beijing. He faces life in prison if convicted of “collusion with foreign forces.”
Sebastien described the proceedings as a “show trial,” arguing: “The evidence turned out to be untrue. My father is in prison because of his journalism, his courage, and his defense of democracy.”
Broad National Security Law
Closing arguments began on Aug. 18 but have repeatedly been delayed. Sebastien criticized Hong Kong’s legal system, saying: “It’s no longer the rule of law, but the rule of men.”
He noted that his father once received more than a year in maximum security solitary confinement simply for lighting a candle and saying a prayer at a Tiananmen Square vigil.
Press Freedom Under Attack
While the trial is open to public observation, Sebastien emphasized that Hong Kong no longer has true press freedom. “People are going to jail for liking posts on social media or even writing on bathroom walls,” he said.
Still, some foreign and local journalists can cover parts of the case. “My father put it best when he said, ‘My job as a journalist is to hold a torch to the truth.’”
Call for International Action
Sebastien thanked international leaders for voicing support but urged stronger measures. He welcomed Donald Trump’s pledge to push for Jimmy’s release and called on the UK government to do more.
“We are in a situation now where my father dying in jail benefits no one. He would become a martyr if he died in prison,” he said.
Struggles with Health in Prison
Sebastien expressed concern about his father’s declining health. Jimmy has diabetes and heart palpitations, and spends much of his time in solitary confinement in a cell without air conditioning.
“He is much skinnier and weaker,” Sebastien said, but added: “His mind and spirit remain strong.”
Holding on to Faith
Despite the pressure, Jimmy continues to draw strength from his faith. Sebastien recalled one of his father’s remarks: “The truth will come out in the kingdom of God, and that is good enough for me.”
