China critic Jimmy Lai sentenced to 20 years in prison78‑year‑old pro‑democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai, long seen as one of Beijing’s most outspoken critics, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison in Hong Kong’s highest‑profile national security case, capping a years‑long legal battle that has drawn global condemnation. The ruling deepens concerns over press freedom and the future of the rule of law in the city. CNN's Kristie Lu Stout reports.

Source: CNN February 09, 2026 16:52 UTC