Jimmy Lai’s daughter tells CNN she is devastated by guilty verdict handed down to her father

Claire Lai, daughter of Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai, expressed her devastation to CNN's Jim Sciutto following her father's guilty verdict this week. She attributed the outcome to what she described as Hong Kong's compromised legal system under Chinese rule.

Lai, 78, who founded a pro-democracy tabloid known for its criticism of the Chinese Communist Party until its closure in 2021, now faces a possible life sentence. His two-year trial was conducted under a national security law imposed by Beijing after pro-democracy protests.

Prosecutors presented evidence that Lai lobbied US politicians, including meetings with then-Vice President Mike Pence and then-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, before the security law was enacted, as proof of sedition and collusion with foreign forces. He also attempted to meet with former President Trump.

Claire Lai described the national security law as vague, draconian, and arbitrary. She stated that the verdict, detailed in an 855-page document, failed to adequately address free press or fundamental rights protections. She spoke of her disappointment that her father's case could not be resolved fairly within the Hong Kong legal system.

Human rights barrister Jonathan Price KC, a member of Lai’s international legal team, characterized the court proceedings as a “performative process” culminating in a predetermined verdict, with scarce legal reasoning.

In response to criticism, Hong Kong authorities maintain that the city’s judicial system adheres to the rule of law and have repeatedly denied claims that Lai’s trial was politically motivated. They stated that the court ruling, which is available for public inspection, clarifies that Lai was not on trial for his political views and meticulously explains the court’s analysis.

The Hong Kong government further defended its legal system, stating that laws must be obeyed, and lawbreakers held accountable.

Claire Lai also voiced concerns about her father's deteriorating health during his five years of imprisonment. She said he has lost a significant amount of weight and suffers from diabetes, heart issues, high blood pressure, and failing eyesight and hearing.

That said, the reality is a bit more complicated. Hong Kong authorities disputed these concerns, asserting that Lai has received adequate medical care while in custody. They stated that he receives daily medical check-ups and has made no complaints about the services provided.

Jonathan Price warned that any sentence imposed on Lai could effectively amount to a life sentence, given his age. Lai turned 78 last week.

Lai's background includes arriving in Hong Kong at age 12, working his way up from factory laborer to clothing tycoon, and later founding Apple Daily in 1995. He was a vocal supporter of Trump and met with US politicians in Washington during the 2019 protests, which were sparked by fears of Beijing encroaching on Hong Kong's autonomy.

Claire Lai expressed gratitude for international support, including President Trump's concern, and believes diplomatic pressure could lead to her father’s release.

The Hong Kong government has demanded that foreign countries stop interfering in China’s internal affairs. China’s foreign ministry spokesperson urged the media to respect the rule of law in Hong Kong and report facts rationally and accurately.

Despite the verdict, Claire Lai affirmed her family's commitment to continue fighting, drawing on her father's teaching to face adversity with cheer and spirit.