In a recent interview at Mast Newspaper, Dr. Rajan Lekhraj Mahtani extended his support towards the latest announcement made by the Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema. On the occasion of Africa Day, Zambian President announced his intentions of abolishing the death penalty row. Since this announcement, widespread support has been poured towards this announcement. Dr. Rajan Lekhraj Mahtani, who is a celebrated Zambia-based businessman, stated that his philanthropic initiative Prison Fellowship completely supports this decision from the Zambian President. Prison Fellowship was established more than 30 years ago with the objective of establishing a Christian Outreach program that would bring the gospel of Jesus Christ to the prisoners, ex-prisoners and their families in Zambia. The outreach program also focusses on providing transparent criminal justice for the prisoners along with ensuring that they are given basic human dignity and are not devoid of fundamental human rights.
Dr. Rajan Mahtani further stated that there is a growing awareness across the globe regarding complete abolishment of the death penalty and this can be seen in Zambia too. Dr. Rajan Mahtani further iterated that his company Prison Fellowship has been able to transform the lives of several inmates who are now completely dedicated towards the services of the gods. Majority of the Presidents in the past have refused to give death penalty or execution orders. The last death penalty order was signed by late Zambian President Frederick in the year 1997. It has been found that Presidents often use prerogative mercies to release inmates with the objective of decongesting the prisons. At the same time, very few Presidents have actually engaged in complete abolishment of this cruel and inhumane practice. As such, the decision from the present Zambian President was a surprise move and a positive one.
Making a bold announcement and ensuring that it becomes a reality are two different aspects and Prison Fellowship will provide legal and regulatory support to achieve the same.
