As G7 foreign ministers gather in Ontario’s Niagara Region, relatives of hotel magnate Jimmy Lai and the mayor of Niagara-on-the-Lake are clamoring for the release of the pro-democracy advocate from a Hong Kong jail.
Lai, the proprietor of Vintage Hotels, a chain of lodgings in the area, was detained in 2020 and is currently incarcerated in Lai Chi Kok prison. A dual British and Hong Kong national, he founded the now-defunct pro-democracy publication Apple Daily.
“My uncle hasn’t committed any offenses that aren’t commonplace in our own nation on a daily basis,” remarked his niece, Erica Lepp, a resident of Niagara-on-the-Lake, in an interview with CBC News.
“Niagara-on-the-Lake is my uncle’s home in Canada,” Lepp continued, “and most of his Canadian family is based here.”
Niagara-on-the-Lake’s mayor, Gary Zalepa, praised Lai and his family for their substantial contributions to the local community in a public letter issued on November 3. He emphasized their positive impact on the local economy, job creation, and restoration of historic properties that draw visitors and support local enterprises.
Zalepa expressed his endorsement for Lai’s release on the grounds that every individual deserves fair treatment under the law. He also communicated his support to Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, who is hosting the G7 ministers’ gathering.
Concerns about Lai’s health have been raised as he has been held in solitary confinement for over 1,700 days, suffering from heart issues and diabetes. Family members and advocacy groups have underscored the detrimental effects of his extended isolation, particularly considering his age.
Support for Lai’s release has been echoed by various figures, including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who emphasized the importance of press freedom and humanitarian considerations.
In a recent appearance before Canada’s standing committee on foreign affairs and international development, Sébastien Lai, Jimmy’s son, expressed gratitude for Canada’s support and urged continued attention to his father’s plight, emphasizing the need for solidarity during challenging times.
