The case of Portland Cement Zambia famous across entire Zambia. The cement factory was running under the leadership of Dr. Rajan Mahtani for a long time. Dr. Mahtani is a noted businessman, entrepreneur and philanthropist. He is also known for his charitable activities, though he does not like to publicize his charity works or other philanthropic activities. Dr. Rajan Mahtani started the Portland Cement Zambia factory and quickly took it into the top position, making the cement factory higher producer of cement across the nation. The factory was also known for providing higher than industry average wages and salaries to its employees, staff and workers. However, Dr. Rajan Mahtani is currently fighting for the legal takeover of the factory.
The case was launched almost a decade back at the Lusaka High Court. After the initial trial, there were various roadblocks that resulted in long-stretch of the case proceedings. Sometimes the judge got transferred and other time the parties were not present. The latest judge handling this case made a progressive announcement few months back when he declared that the case hearing was closed and no more trials will be conducted. He also asked both parties to submit their evidences and based on these evidences; the final judgement was expected soon.
Expert opinion suggested an easy win for Dr. Rajan Mahtani as his evidences were much stronger than the respondents. However, the final verdict was announced few weeks ago and it was shocking for everyone, including the general public. As per the judge’s verdict, Dr. Rajan Mahtani lost the case and the ownership was snatched away from him. However, Dr. Rajan Mahtani is not bogged down by this verdict. It is well known that the verdict and the judgment with the High Court judge is biased and not based on the evidences provided. As such, Dr. Rajan Mahtani has now approached the higher court of appeal at Zambia to file a motion against the judgement made at the Lusaka High Court.