Journalists in Hong Kong found guilty of sedition amidst China's intensified efforts to suppress independent media: report.
Earlier this year, a new law was enacted to limit free speech in Hong Kong.
Recent reports indicate that both the former editor-in-chief of Stand News, Chung Pui-kuen, and his successor, Patrick Lam, were convicted of sedition in Hong Kong as the authorities continue to limit the freedom of the press.
"In his trial last year, Chung stated that there was no hidden agenda or other objectives that were not transparent, and that their main goal was to document important events with significant public interest."
Beijing enacted the Safeguarding National Security Bill in March 2020, which imposes life imprisonment for treason and insurrection and allows for imprisonment for possession of treasonous publications, in response to the 2019 protest movement in Hong Kong.
"Former editor Lam Yin-pong of Stand News said that he was unwavering in his beliefs, and that he had the greatest determination. He made an extremely selfless sacrifice."
Since 2020, the local media industry has been heavily self-censoring, and the verdict could further intensify this chilling effect, according to Prof. Eric Lai at Georgetown Center for Asian Law.
During his testimony, Chung highlighted his commitment to upholding the principles of freedom of speech and a free press.
During his trial, Chung stated that freedom of speech was akin to a form of belief for him.
Lam Yin-pong, one of Chung's former colleagues, rejected allegations that the paper was biased towards a specific agenda.
"He stated that they did not aim to serve a specific individual or give a definitive answer. He added that labeling this as a conspiracy is absurd."
In May, 14 pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong were also charged with national security offenses.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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