Jimmy Lai’s Appeal Upheld, Renewed Calls for Release Amid Trump’s Advocacy

Former Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai, a prominent pro-democracy advocate, has received a surprising victory in his legal battle, with the Court of Appeal upholding his appeal. This development comes after Lai was sentenced to 20 years in prison earlier this month for conspiring with foreign powers and publishing seditious articles . The case has drawn international criticism, with the United States and Great Britain demanding his release.

Sentence and Charges

Lai, 78, was convicted under Hong Kong’s national security law. Prosecutors argued that Lai concealed the operation of Dico Consultants, a private consultancy, within a public building to facilitate publishing and printing . Lai’s defense team maintained the case should have been handled as a civil matter, not a criminal one.

International Response and Trump’s Intervention

The verdict sparked condemnation from the U.S. And the UK, both calling for Lai’s immediate release. President Donald Trump stated he “felt so badly” after the verdict and revealed he had discussed Lai’s case with Chinese President Xi Jinping, requesting consideration for his release . Trump has repeatedly pledged to secure Lai’s freedom, stating, “One hundred percent, I will get him out.”

State of the Union Appearance

Lai’s daughter, Claire Lai, was a guest at President Trump’s State of the Union address on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 . Republican Mike Johnson stated her presence was intended to emphasize the U.S.’s commitment to securing her father’s release . Johnson highlighted Lai’s dedication to democracy and freedom of expression, contrasting his imprisonment with the values of the United States .

Health Concerns

Lai’s lawyer, Robert Pang, has consistently argued for a lenient sentence due to his client’s deteriorating health, citing high blood pressure and diabetes .

Background

Lai, a British citizen, has been detained since December 2020. He founded the newspaper Apple Daily, which was forced to close in 2021. He was a prominent supporter of the pro-democracy movement that led to large-scale protests in Hong Kong in 2019, and 2020.