TPDF Issues A Ban On Use Of Armies Uniforms In The Country Within Seven Days -

By STAFF REPORTER

THE Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF) has issued a seven-day ultimatum for the civilians across the country to stop using (wearing) the army’s uniforms, as well as the other tailor-made uniforms for the national security institutions, including the Police Force.

The uniforms in question include the army’s combats, jackets, trousers, gowns, hats, shoes, shorts and bags, together with the other clothes resembling such uniforms.

Giving a special press conference to journalists in Dodoma Capital City yesterday, Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF) Director of Information and Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Gaudentius Gervas Ilonda, expressed that there has been a negative increase in the illegal use of the vital uniforms among the civilians, and other groups across the country.

The army’s chief information and public relation officer, Lieutenant Colonel Gaudentius Gervas Ilonda detailed that there are some unpatriotic people who are making poor use of the uniforms to con others people’s money, and engage into numerous malicious acts, the unwelcoming development which put the country’s security at stake.

And he added, it is unfortunate that there are some institutions that are providing their staff with the uniforms that are similar, or close- related to those from the armies, saying the move was also in contravene with the set regulations.

“Use of the army’s uniforms is against the National Defence Act (NDA), and above, the country’s Penal Code and the National Security Act (NSA) prohibits use of the army’s uniforms among the civilians,” he added.

Giving further details, he urged all traders and civilians who possess the uniforms to surrender them at the different army camps, and police stations, saying after the given seven days, the army will launch a special countrywide crackdown.

“We have decided to give a grace period of at least seven days so as to give the traders and others who are possessing our uniforms to return them to us, but also, the parents to inspect and educate their youth childs over the need to do away from the use of the uniforms before we venture into the special crackdown,” he unveiled.

After the seven days, Lieutenant Colonel Ilonda said the army will embark on a no-nonsense crackdown to identify, arrest and take punitive measures against those to be nabbed under the possession and use of the uniforms.

“There are some artists (musicians/ filmmakers) who are using the uniforms, just for good intention, these will from now on have to seek special permission from the relevant armies,” he explained.

The Tanzania Peoples Defence Force, TPDF was established On September 1, 1964 Under National Defence Act for the purpose of defending the territorial integrity, state sovereignty and safeguarding National interests of the United Republic of Tanzania.

The army’s vision is to maintain a small armed forces composed of highly skilled officers and men equipped with modern equipment necessary for national defence.