Secretary for Justice Paul Lam refuted what he called “unfounded accusations” against the judiciary, stressing the need to uphold the rule of law and public trust and confidence in the legal system.

Speaking at the ceremonial opening of the Legal Year on Monday, Lam acknowledged that judgements in “highly charged” national security cases had sparked criticism, including what he described as false allegations used to advocate for unlawful sanctions against judges or to pressure overseas non-permanent judges to resign.

In his role "as the guardian of the public interest and the due administration of justice", he expressed disappointment over these developments, noting that judges have carried out their duties with professionalism and diligence.

Such criticism, Lam warned, risks eroding trust in Hong Kong’s judicial system and the rule of law – foundations he called critical to the city’s status as an international hub.

The justice minister made it clear defendants were treated fairly in judicial proceedings.

"Some might opine that the proceedings have taken a long time. I would say the time was well spent and necessary to ensure that there was a fair trial to all parties concerned," he added.

Lam also challenged critics to identify any part of the rulings suggesting judges considered “extraneous” factors or compromised their independence.

He also highlighted that the government does not always prevail in national security cases, citing acquittals in May 2024 and a quashed conviction by the Court of Final Appeal in March 2025 as "unequivocal evidence" of an independent judiciary.

Addressing external pressure, Lam noted the judiciary has repeatedly stated that judges exercise power independently and free from interference, in line with their judicial oath.

“There is absolutely no reason whatsoever to doubt the veracity of these statements,” he said.

While legal professionals may not agree on every issue, and while the government “sometimes succeeds, sometimes fails” in court, Lam affirmed their shared “solidarity, courage and determination to maintain and enhance the rule of law in Hong Kong.”