A Chinese Perspective on a Fellow Chinese-National Being Sentenced to 20 Years in Jail For Whipping Local Employee

This week’s sentencing of a Chinese mine owner in Rwanda to twenty years in prison for whipping an employee drew a sharp reaction from African netizens. However, beyond a pro forma statement from the Chinese embassy in Kigali, Chinese reactions have been much rarer. However, an anonymous Chinese business owner in Rwanda recently posted a fascinating reflection on the implications of the ruling for Africa-China labor relations and why they sometimes turn so sour.

The author, nicknamed ‘Africa Bob,’ admits to being baffled by Sun Shujun’s decision to assault his employee: “According to my personal experience, the Rwandan government and police are very protective of investors, and they take law enforcement seriously. Why choose to publicly whip someone like this and to make people watch? This is not only illegal but also a very stupid management style.