Wed Sep 25 02:55:21 UTC 2024: ## Former Stand News Editor Lam Regrets Missed Opportunity to Explain Independent Journalism
**HONG KONG -** Former Stand News editor Patrick Lam, convicted of sedition by a Hong Kong court, expressed regret for missing an opportunity to explain the concept of independent journalism to a police officer. Lam, along with ex-colleague Chung Pui-kuen, both former top editors of the now-defunct Stand News, were found guilty of sedition for articles published on the outlet’s website.
In a letter to the court, Lam stated that he wished he had engaged in dialogue with the police officer during a raid on Stand News’ office. He believed this would have provided a chance to clarify the nature of independent journalism and its vital role in a democratic society.
The conviction of Lam and Chung marks another blow to press freedom in Hong Kong, where authorities have increasingly cracked down on dissent and critical voices. Stand News, a popular online platform known for its independent reporting, was forced to close down in December 2021 after authorities froze its assets and arrested several of its staff members.
The case highlights the shrinking space for independent journalism in Hong Kong, raising concerns about the future of press freedom in the city.
First Piper 