Lai Wins Appeal, Still Behind Bars

Veteran media mogul Jimmy Lai, 78, has won an appeal that overturns his fraud conviction, clearing the charge that threatened his business empire. The Court of Appeal said the original trial was flawed and set the verdict aside. Yet Lai stays in custody on a separate national security case linked to his criticism of Beijing’s role in Hong Kong. The split outcome shows Hong Kong’s courts can still correct errors, but the sweeping national security law continues to curb dissent. Observers view the win as a modest boost for due‑process, while his detention keeps pressure on press freedom and investor confidence.

The ruling signals that Hong Kong courts can still overturn flawed cases, offering a glimmer of judicial recourse. Yet Lai’s continued detention warns businesses and activists that the national security law remains a potent tool that can override due process.

The case underscores the tug‑of‑war between Hong Kong’s fading judicial independence and Beijing’s tightening grip via the national security law. It acts as a barometer for press freedom, investor risk and the city’s global standing, reminding stakeholders that legal wins can be hollow under political pressure.