The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government on Wednesday expressed "dissatisfaction and opposition" to what it called unfounded comments by "so-called human rights experts" after the court convicted media tycoon Jimmy Lai of national security offences.
A government spokesperson said the experts showed no respect for the court's independent judgment, which was based on facts and evidence laid out in an 855-page verdict. The spokesperson accused them of "despicable political manipulations" by demanding Lai's release and overriding the rule of law.
"The court's conviction verdict is well-founded and reasoned, fully demonstrating that the court has made its decision on the case strictly in accordance with the law and evidence, free from any interference, and absolutely free of any political considerations," the spokesperson said.
The statement stressed that the case had "nothing to do with freedom of speech and of the press at all," alleging Lai used journalism as a guise to harm the country and Hong Kong. It said the trial revealed Lai's personal collusion with foreign forces to seek sanctions.
The government reiterated its commitment to implementing the Hong Kong National Security Law and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance to prevent acts endangering national security while upholding residents' lawful rights and freedoms.
