By HRH Princess Eugene Majuru
Harare, Zimbabwe ( News of The South) – A recent incident involving popular social media personality DJ Ollah conducting what appeared to be a “cross-examination” of Mai Jeremaya in a public setting has ignited a fervent discussion about legal procedures and the role of public figures in matters typically reserved for the courts. The widely circulated video of the encounter has raised questions about the legality and appropriateness of such public interrogations, particularly as they touch upon sensitive issues that may warrant formal judicial scrutiny.
Cross-examination, a cornerstone of legal proceedings, is a specific process conducted within a court of law. Its primary purpose is to test the credibility and reliability of a witness’s testimony, to elicit new information, and to challenge or clarify previous statements. In Zimbabwe, as in many common law jurisdictions, this process is meticulously governed by rules of evidence and procedure, ensuring fairness and the proper administration of justice. Judges and legal practitioners are bound by strict guidelines to ensure that cross-examination is conducted professionally, without bias or abuse.
Legal experts in Zimbabwe have been quick to point out that the actions attributed to DJ Ollah fall outside the established legal framework for cross-examination. “Cross-examination is a judicial function,” stated prominent legal analyst, Ms. Ruvarashe Moyo. “It is conducted by legal professionals in a courtroom, under the supervision of a judge, and with specific rules to protect the rights of all parties involved. A public figure, regardless of their intent, cannot assume this role.”
Concerns have also been raised regarding Mai Jeremaya’s potential lack of understanding of formal legal processes. It is plausible that, being a public figure rather than a legal professional, she may not have been aware that such a “public cross-examination” carries no legal weight and could even prejudice any future official proceedings. The environment of a public or social media “interview” is vastly different from the structured and protected setting of a court, where individuals are afforded legal representation and their rights are safeguarded.
The incident highlights a growing trend of public figures and social media platforms becoming informal arenas for addressing disputes or airing grievances. While such platforms can facilitate public discourse and awareness, the line between public discussion and pseudo-legal proceedings can become dangerously blurred. There is a critical distinction between sharing a story or opinion and attempting to conduct a formal legal interrogation.
For a crime to be established, a rigorous investigation by law enforcement is required, followed by formal charges and a trial in a competent court of law. During this process, evidence is presented, witnesses are examined (including cross-examination by legal counsel), and a judge or magistrate determines whether the elements of a crime have been proven beyond a reasonable doubt. This is a far cry from a public figure questioning an individual outside of any legal authority.
The case involving DJ Ollah and Mai Jeremaya serves as a timely reminder of the importance of respecting established legal processes. While public interest in cases involving public figures is understandable, it is crucial to allow the proper authorities to conduct investigations and for matters to be heard in a court of law where due process is guaranteed for all. The incident underscores the need for greater public awareness regarding legal procedures and the limitations of informal “justice” carried out in the public sphere.
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