The final verdict on the long-awaited Portland Cement Zambia factory is a clear indication of the evident shortcomings and challenges of the Zambia law making institutions. After almost 10 years of wait with numerous trials and submission of factual evidences, the final verdict is nowhere close to justice. These ups and downs in the case are not only affecting the factory’s performance but also the people associated with it, Dr. Rajan Mahtani.
Dr. Rajan Mahtani is one of the most famous business personalities in Zambia with numerous successful business ventures under his name. Some of his companies which have secured top positions in their respective industries are Finance Bank Zambia, Mahtani Group of Companies and Finsbury Investments. Majority of these companies are also known for their focus towards the underdeveloped sections of the society. However, all these positive contributions to the society and the nation will go into vain if Dr. Mahtani is not able to perform his day-to-day tasks in peace. This is what is happening at present. Due to the commitments associated with the case which is being dragged for almost ten years as well as the related pressures from conspirators and general media, Dr. Rajan Mahtani has not been able to provide his 100 percent to his companies. At the same time, Portland Cement Zambia has suffered dramatically since the start of the case for its legal takeover, as Dr. Mahtani has not been able to lead the factory or take care in any way. All these factors are essential costing the economy of the nation.
The final verdict was recently announced by the judge overseeing the case and even then Dr. Mahtani did not get any relief as it was given against his claims. As of now, Dr. Rajan Mahtani has appealed to the higher court of appeal against this judgment at the Lusaka High Court and is expecting a reply from the senior authorities regarding this matter.