RUZANE v PARADZAI & ANOR 1991 (1) ZLR 273 (S)

Flynote

Evidence — function of expert witness — expert in a particular field — who is an expert — qualifications required — reliance on text books — what must be shown.

Customary law — text — books on — written by persons of established repute — ascertainment of — s 9 Customary Law and Local Courts Act 1990 — court entitled to refer to text books. Legislation — Customary Law and Local Courts Act 1990 — s 9 — Customary Law and Primary Courts Act 1981 — s 5 — Chiefs and Headmen Act 1982 — s 3.

Chief — appointment — succession — letter of public official constitutes public document — accurate public record on succession to chieftainship — unfettered discretion of President to appoint.