Post by : Saif Rahman

Jimmy Lai, founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily in Hong Kong, remains a potent symbol of press freedom in the eyes of his ex-colleagues. As they await his sentencing under the national security law, many journalists reflect on how challenging it has become to maintain independent journalism in the city.

Lai has been convicted of crimes associated with national security, notably colluding with foreign forces and sedition. These charges are a result of legislation introduced by China in 2020 following substantial public protests in Hong Kong. His conviction follows police raids on the Apple Daily newsroom and the arrests of Lai and senior editorial staff, ultimately leading to the newspaper's closure.

While the verdict was largely anticipated, it still brings profound sorrow to former Apple Daily employees. Edward Li, the paper's ex-chief breaking-news editor, expressed concern for the potential length of the prison sentences that Lai and his fellow editors may face, with worries that they could be extensive.

The demise of Apple Daily significantly altered Hong Kong's media landscape. The publication was known for its robust and independent journalism, and its shutdown sent a stark warning to other media venues. Many outlets now hesitate to publish critical stories to evade legal repercussions, fostering an environment of fear and self-censorship.

As restrictions mounted, numerous journalists opted to leave Hong Kong or abandon the field altogether. Shirley Leung, another former reporter at Apple Daily, stated that operating freely had become nearly impossible. She relocated abroad and is part of Pulse HK, a small media organization in Taiwan that covers Hong Kong-related matters.

Other independent outlets, like Stand News and Citizens News, have also closed their doors in recent years. Several previous Apple Daily editors have admitted guilt and will receive sentences alongside Lai for actions deemed violations of the national security law by the government.

Journalists have pointed out that a significant issue lies in the ambiguity of the law. They fear that ordinary reporting could be interpreted as illegal, complicating their decision-making regarding what to publish safely.

In the aftermath of numerous closures, some journalists have linked up with international media or established small platforms in locales such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and Taiwan. However, financial constraints and layoffs at international networks pose challenges for these outlets' sustainability.

Press freedom organizations indicate that Hong Kong’s status in media freedom has seen a notable decline in recent years. While the Hong Kong government asserts that press freedom is legally guaranteed, journalists argue that real-world conditions present a vastly different scenario.

In spite of their financial difficulties and personal risks, many former Apple Daily reporters persist in their journalistic endeavors. Some undertake additional jobs to support themselves while pursuing their reporting. They advocate for the vital role of journalism in holding power accountable and giving voice to average citizens.

Edward Li remarked that with the loss of Apple Daily, Hong Kong has also lost a pivotal voice that was once unafraid to challenge the government. This loss, he added, spurs many journalists abroad to continue their reporting duties.

As Jimmy Lai awaits his sentencing, his former colleagues express that his bravery continues to motivate them. For these journalists, his journey symbolizes the larger struggle for press freedom in Hong Kong and the relentless effort to uphold independent journalism.

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