The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) is warning demonstrators to desist from wearing military-patterned uniforms and accoutrements during protests. 

GAF says that the act is unlawful as such individuals may wrongly be perceived as personnel of GAF personnel. 

In a press release, the Ghana Armed Forces said the behaviour if not stopped will draw its image into disrepute.

“The probability for these individuals being wrongly perceived to be GAF personnel has the propensity of drawing the image of GAF into disrepute. Conversely, these unauthorised acts are in contravention of the National Liberation Council Decree (NLCD) 177 of 1967, which is still in force.”

“This Decree in part states that; "no person shall wear or use any military uniforms, equipment, or accoutrements or other material unless he or she is a member of the Armed Forces of Ghana.”

It added that despite continuous education on the subject, the trend appears to be on the increase citing the recently held 3-day #OccupyJulorbiHouse protest. 

“Despite the continuous education and warnings issued to the general public to desist from these practices, the trend rather appears to be on the increase.”

“During the recent demonstrations in Accra by Democracy Hub and other groups, it was observed that some protesters and persons purported to be providing private security to some dignitaries were dressed in military pattern camouflage uniforms and other accoutrements.”

The release concluded that persons who will flout this directive will be arrested and prosecuted. 

GAF therefore seeks the cooperation of the general public to curb the use of military uniforms and accoutrements, especially during future protests.”

“Those who continue to violate this law would be arrested,” the statement added.