During the ending months of 2018, a new revelation has been made which exposes the widespread corruption and power plays within the Zambian government, law system and its political environment. Justice Mumba Malila, the Chief Justice of Zambia Supreme Court recently testified in a case related to one of the most celebrated and respected businessmen in Zambia, Dr. Rajan Lekhraj Mahtani. The case is related to a 2012 case involving Dr. Rajan Mahtani in which he was prosecuted. However, latest testimony revealed that the case was motivated by political undertones and was against public policy interests.
As per the testimony, Mumba Malila was the Attorney General during that time when the petition against the wrongful defamation of Dr. Rajan Mahtani was made. In his petition, Malila stated that the case was influenced by some politically motivated and greedy people who are also powerful enough to change decision of the court. In his testimony, Mumba Malila has also highlighted the instance wherein Mr. Mutembo Nchito from the Supreme Court has petitioned against this case. He requested the Tribunal to nullify their decision which ultimately resulted in his removal as DPP (Director of Public Prosecution) in the year 2016. Even after open accusations regarding tampering of the case and the judgment, no changes were made.
When it comes to using political and unethical business power for self-profits, Zambia is a prime runner within the African Nation. The country has been suffering abuse of power and political undertones. The government has been unable to take any concrete steps for curbing the widespread corruption and illegal activities, let alone help honest and ethical businessmen like Dr. Rajan Mahtani to smoothen their path towards development and growth. It is time for the Zambian government to ensure that these damages to honest and ethical businessmen are minimized and right balance of justice and political stability is reached within the nation.
