On 9 February, the High Court of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) handed down its sentence on Jimmy Lai, imposing a total of 20 years of imprisonment for offences including conspiracy to collude with foreign forces to endanger national security. The sentence fully demonstrates the firm resolve and strong will of the HKSAR in punishing crimes endangering national security in accordance with the law. As stated by Chief Executive John Lee, Jimmy Lai has committed heinous crimes and is thoroughly evil. This heavy sentence upholds the rule of law, delivers justice, and is widely welcomed. The Hong Kong Federation of Journalists (HKFJ) expresses its firm support for the judgment.

The High Court of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) delivered its verdict on the 15th, finding Jimmy Lai, founder of Next Digital, guilty of two counts of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and one count of conspiracy to publish seditious publications. This ruling was made by the judiciary in accordance with the law, justly and openly, fully embodies the spirit of the rule of law in Hong Kong and effectively safeguards national security in the region, which has been widely applauded by the Hong Kong public. The Hong Kong Federation of Journalists (HKFJ) firmly supports the High Court's verdict and stands resolutely behind the HKSAR in fulfilling its constitutional responsibility to safeguard national security.