Pretoria: The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has expressed concern over the increasing trend of uniformed members posting obscene photos and videos on their personal social media accounts while wearing military uniforms. The SANDF emphasized that while it respects the personal freedoms of its members, the public display of explicit, suggestive, or inappropriate content undermines the dignity of the uniform and the values of the SANDF.
According to South African Government News Agency, the SANDF reminded all members that their conduct, both on and off duty, reflects directly on the integrity and discipline of the force. In response to a recent incident, the SANDF strongly condemned the misuse of its uniform by posting explicit photographic or video material on personal social media platforms while in uniform.
The SANDF stated that these actions are "strictly" prohibited and constitute a serious breach of military discipline, professional ethics, and the SANDF Code of Conduct. Members are expected to uphold the highest standards of behavior and preserve the dignity of the uniform they wear.
The Chief of the SANDF, General Rudzani Maphwanya, along with the entire Military Command Council, issued a firm warning to all SANDF members. They clarified that such conduct is a criminal offense under military law and will not be tolerated or go unpunished within the SANDF.
The SANDF reiterated that any misuse of the uniform in public or online spaces is considered a criminal act under the Military Discipline Code.