As the G7 foreign ministers gear up for a meeting in the Niagara Region of Ontario, relatives of hotel proprietor Jimmy Lai and the mayor of Niagara-on-the-Lake are appealing for the release of the pro-democracy advocate from a prison in Hong Kong.
Lai, the owner of Vintage Hotels and a British-Hong Kong dual citizen, was detained in 2020 and is currently held at Lai Chi Kok prison. He founded the now-defunct pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily.
Expressing concerns about Lai’s incarceration, his niece Erica Lepp, residing in Niagara-on-the-Lake, emphasized that her uncle’s actions in Hong Kong are akin to routine practices in Canada. She highlighted the significance of Niagara-on-the-Lake as Lai’s Canadian home and the primary location for his Canadian relatives.
Gary Zalepa, the mayor of Niagara-on-the-Lake, commended Lai and his family for their substantial contributions to the local community. Zalepa emphasized their positive impact on the economy, job creation, and the restoration of heritage properties, coinciding with the upcoming G7 forum in the region.
Zalepa reiterated his support for Lai’s release, emphasizing the principle of fair treatment under the law. He penned a letter to Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand ahead of the G7 ministers’ meeting, advocating for Lai’s cause and lauding his lifelong commitment to championing democratic ideals.
Jimmy Lai, a prominent figure in Hong Kong’s political landscape, faced charges under China’s national security law following the 2019 pro-democracy demonstrations. Throughout his trial, Lai maintained his innocence against accusations of colluding with foreign entities and seditious activities against the Chinese government, potentially facing life imprisonment upon conviction.
Reports indicated Lai’s deteriorating health during the trial, with instances of heart palpitations necessitating medical attention. International support for Lai’s release has emerged, with U.S. President Donald Trump urging Chinese President Xi Jinping to consider releasing Lai as a gesture to improve bilateral relations and China’s global image.
Concerns about Lai’s well-being, particularly his diabetes and prolonged solitary confinement exceeding 1,700 days, have intensified among his family and human rights organizations. Advocates, including Lai’s son Sébastien, have urged continued international support and attention to his plight amid challenging circumstances.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney echoed the calls for Lai’s release, emphasizing Canada’s commitment to press freedom and humanitarian considerations. Lepp welcomed the recent backing from Canadian officials but stressed the urgency of the situation, emphasizing the emotional toll on Lai’s family during his prolonged imprisonment.
