3rd Anniversary of the Closure of Apple Daily
A major blow of Hong Kong’s Press Freedom
23d June 2024 marks the third anniversary of the forced closure of the Apple Daily newspaper, which had been the only daily newspaper supporting Hong Kong’s democracy movement. It is a major blow to press freedom in Hong Kong.
The closure of Apple Daily came after 26 years of operation, prompting hundreds of supporters to gather outside its office in Tseung Kwan O. The sense of solidarity was palpable as thousands of other citizens queued at newsstands to purchase the last printed copies, which quickly sold out, with all 1 million copies being snapped up on the day. This event underscores the newspaper’s influence and the deep connection it had with its readers.
Hong Kong Media Overseas (HKMO) wishes to express our gratitude to the media professionals in Hong Kong who courageously continue to do their jobs in the city despite all the uncertainties and risks they face. Additionally, HKMO will continue to advocate for the release of Apple Daily’s founder Jimmy Lai, its chief editor, and five other executives.
Jimmy Lai’s trial has been ongoing for 90 days as of 11th June 2024, Mr Lai faces the possibility of life imprisonment .
The charges against Jimmy Lai, illustrate how the HKSAR is utilising the legal framework to criminalise the normal practice of journalism.
We call for an end to this farce of prosecution against the seven Apple Daily executives on trial and for their immediate release.
HKMO has compiled a dossier titled “Hong Kong’s War on Journalism: The Persecution of Jimmy Lai and Apple Daily” as a source of reference. This dossier details the relentless nature of the persecution and tracks the major developments of the case For a detailed report, please refer to the link below.https://www.aohkmp.org.uk/2580-2/
Enquiries: info@aohkmp.org.uk
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