Apple Daily 'has always opposed the communists'

Apple Daily, a defunct Hong Kong newspaper founded by Jimmy Lai Chee-ying, was known for its staunch anti-communist stance, the court heard on the 79th day of his national security trial.

That came as prosecutors played footage of Lai's interviews and live chat series, including a 2020 interview in which he acknowledged Apple Daily's opposition to the government.

"I think Apple Daily must be a thorn in the side of the government," Lai said during a live War of Netizen interview broadcasted on Taiwan Yahoo TV on May 11, 2020.

"Over so many years, we have always been anti-communist, we are an opposition newspaper," he said.

He also expressed hope that the United States, its Central Intelligence Agency or the United Kingdom would intervene in support of the 2019 protests.

Despite facing financial difficulties, Lai said he would maintain the Taiwan edition of Apple Daily, as it was one of the few newspapers that "protect Taiwan's democracy and are anti-communist."

However, he denied supporting Hong Kong's independence, saying he only wanted the rights outlined in the Basic Law.

In another interview in July 2020, Lai said Hongkongers were "nervous and pessimistic" about the national security law, and businesses would no longer be protected by the rule of law.

However, he ruled out any attempt by himself to seek refuge in the United States.

Asked by the host whether he supported independence for Taiwan, Lai said the topic was very sensitive and he was not prepared to open his mouth on the issue as he was the boss of a media business.

Lai also discussed his advocating no distinction be made between peaceful and "valiant" protesters, ie those who took a more physical stance in rallies, and said that Apple Daily would continue to run even if he went into jail.

In another interview recorded by Fox Business on July 1, 2020, Lai said Hongkongers were nervous and pessimistic about the promulgation of national security law and that people were leaving because of the law.

He also said businesses would no longer be protected by the rule of law but added that he would not go to the United States as a "refugee."

The defense has withdrawn its application to call four police officers as witnesses, but is requesting a prosecution expert witness, University of Hong Kong associate professor Chow Kam-pui, be called. Chow had previously provided a written statement on the instant messaging and social media platforms involved in the case.

The defense case is expected to open in early July, once the prosecution has finished presenting its evidence.