Chinese national Shi Zhending has been deported aboard China Southern Airlines flight 6044 following the termination of his contract by TCM Mabati Factory. The action comes after a viral video captured Zhending brutally assaulting a Kenyan worker at the Uasin Gishu County facility, sparking nationwide outrage and calls for justice.
The disturbing footage, which circulated rapidly across social media, shows Zhending striking a helpless Kenyan employee with roofing materials inside the factory warehouse. The violent act ignited a national debate on the treatment of local workers by foreign employers and the urgent need for stricter enforcement of labor laws.
The Chinese Embassy in Nairobi condemned Zhending’s actions, expressing “extreme disappointment” and confirming that his contract had been immediately terminated. An embassy spokesperson emphasized: “We believe this isolated incident should not affect investment cooperation between Chinese and Kenyan companies, but it is a reminder to all Chinese citizens in Kenya to uphold mutual respect and abide by the laws, regulations, and cultural customs of Kenya.”
The Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) also criticized the assault. Secretary-General Francis Atwoli described it as a “blatant violation of workers’ rights and dignity” and demanded immediate deportation. While a reconciliation video later showed the assaulted worker forgiving his supervisor, many Kenyans online expressed skepticism, highlighting the precarious position of local employees in such situations.
Shi Zhending was escorted to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and deported to Changsha Huanghua International Airport on flight CZ6044. The swift response by both Kenyan authorities and the employer sends a strong signal that abusive behavior will not be tolerated and underscores the importance of mutual respect and adherence to local laws in all employment relationships.
