Civilians are not – by law – allowed to wear any SA National Defence Force (SANDF) uniform, and using “full” SANDF uniform to advertise birthdays is a no-go.

A young man may have gotten more than what he bargained for when he advertised his birthday party clothed in what the national defence force calls “full uniform”.

This has prompted a strong response from the South African National Defence Force.

The Directorate: Corporate Communication (DCC) on Sunday 11 September said in a statement: “The SA National Defence Force (SANDF) is alarmed at a social media photo of a person in full uniform of the defence [force] advertising his birthday party which will take place at venue in the Vaal. Members of the public are warned it is a criminal offence to be in possession of any SANDF uniform or related artefacts.

“The SANDF wants to state clearly it is not in any way, shape or form associated with this event.

“Chief SANDF [General Rudzani Maphwanya] strongly condemns this irresponsible action and behaviour by impersonating the officer of the SANDF. This matter will be pursued further and the perpetrator will have to face the full might of the law.”

In the Facebook post, the person celebrating his birthday is referred to as the ‘Vaal President’ and wears what appears to be the uniform of the Chief of the SANDF along with epaulettes and medals. The event was scheduled for Saturday, 10 September, according to the promotional posters.

The owner of the Vaal President account reportedly said he was “sad and broken into pieces” at the prospect of facing charges “for a pic that was even photoshopped.”

The SANDF warns anybody illegally wearing any of its uniforms, including the daily camouflage work dress or its camouflage pattern, is guilty of an offence in terms of the Defence Act.

“If a person is found guilty a fine or five years behind bars can be handed down.”