As G7 foreign ministers gear up to assemble in Ontario’s Niagara Region, relatives of hotel proprietor Jimmy Lai and the mayor of Niagara-on-the-Lake are advocating for the release of the pro-democracy advocate from a prison in Hong Kong.
Lai, who was taken into custody in 2020 and is currently detained in Lai Chi Kok prison, is the proprietor of Vintage Hotels, a chain of lodgings in the region. A British and Hong Kong national, he was the founder of the now-closed pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily.
Speaking to CBC News on Thursday, Lai’s niece, Erica Lepp, residing in Niagara-on-the-Lake, stated, “My uncle hasn’t done anything wrong that we don’t do in our own country on a daily basis.” She added, “Niagara-on-the-Lake is my uncle’s Canadian home, and this is where the majority of his Canadian family is.”
Gary Zalepa, the mayor of Niagara-on-the-Lake, expressed in a public letter published on Nov. 3 that Lai and his family have significantly contributed to the community. Zalepa highlighted that Lai and his family have had a positive impact on the local economy, created valuable job opportunities, and rejuvenated historical properties that draw visitors and support local businesses.
Zalepa emphasized his endorsement for Lai’s release, underlining the importance of fair treatment under the law for every individual. He also reached out to Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, who will host the meeting of G7 ministers, to advocate for Lai’s cause.
Lai’s trial, which commenced in December 2023 and concluded in August, saw him plead not guilty to charges of colluding with foreign entities and publishing seditious material against the Chinese government. If found guilty, he could face a life sentence. During his 156-day trial, Lai reportedly experienced heart palpitations and received medical attention.
Recently, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed support for Lai’s release to Chinese President Xi Jinping, suggesting it could benefit U.S.-Chinese relations and China’s global image. Lai has been in solitary confinement for over 1,700 days, raising concerns about his well-being, particularly with pre-existing conditions like diabetes.
In a virtual appearance before Canada’s standing committee on foreign affairs and international development, Sébastien Lai, Jimmy’s son, thanked Canada for joining the call for his father’s release and highlighted the importance of ongoing support for Lai’s cause.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, during a press briefing in Etobicoke on Oct. 16, affirmed support for press freedom and urged Lai’s release. Carney emphasized the humanitarian aspect and Canada’s commitment to press freedom, stressing the responsibility towards Canadian citizens and residents.
Lepp, responding to questions about Canadian politicians’ recent backing for Lai’s release, expressed that such support is overdue given her uncle’s prolonged incarceration. She expressed the desire for her cousins to reunite with their father before it is too late.