The Hong Kong government issued a strong statement on Thursday criticizing the US Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC) following a hearing held the previous day. The hearing focused on the case of Jimmy Lai Chee-ying, the founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper, who is currently imprisoned in Hong Kong.

In its official response, the Hong Kong government accused the commission of colluding with "anti-China politicians" to undermine the city's judicial processes. The authorities specifically took issue with a proposed US bill that seeks to introduce sanctions against local national security officials. The Hong Kong government characterized this legislative effort as an attempt to "intimidate" officials and interfere in the internal affairs of the territory.

While the Hong Kong government views the CECC's actions as a violation of international norms and an attempt to exert political pressure, the US commission maintains that the hearing is a necessary oversight measure regarding human rights and the rule of law in Hong Kong. The dispute highlights the ongoing tension between Hong Kong's national security framework and international observers who argue that the legal proceedings against figures like Lai are politically motivated. The Hong Kong government reiterated its stance that the judicial system remains independent and that the US should cease its involvement in local legal matters.