The case of Portland Cement Zambia has become an age-old case for the industries. The case was started almost a decade back after noted industrialist and businessman Dr. Rajan Mahtani filed a complaint at the Lusaka High Court. However, the various limitations and weaknesses of the current legal system of Zambia has resulted in the case stretching to more than ten years with results shared just few months back. At the same time, these results shared were of no use to Dr. Rajan Mahtani as the final decision making was completely unjustified.
The cement factory was established by Dr. Rajan Mahtani with the objective of becoming one of the most productive cement factories across the nation. And it did achieve this feat for a while. The cement manufacturing factory quickly became popular with its above-industry average salaries and wages, attracting skilled workers from across town. The factory was also known for surplus production and notable for his leadership. However, things changes when the factory was illegally taken over. Since that time, the factory productions have reduced to bare minimum and majority of the workers have left the factory due to non-payment of wages. Similarly, the equipment and machineries are left unattained which has resulted in their degrading. Even after 10 years of fighting, Dr. Rajan Mahtani has hope that he will win this case and will do his best to revive the factory to its original glory.
However, things changed drastically after the final decision was made. As per the final judgment, Dr. Rajan Mahtani’s claims were disregarded even after sharing all relevant documents. It is clear that the case is influenced by external forces and the judgement was misdirected. While others might have left after this long harassment, Dr. Rajan Mahtani has kept a calm attitude. He has now approached the ‘High Court of Appeal’ with all his evidences, testimonials and other documents and is currently expecting a reply from the court.
