1. The soldier knows and accepts that while he is entitled to the same rights and duties as any other citizen of South Africa, some of his rights are restricted in the interest of effective military service. Active participation in party political activities is limited by his duty to defend the constitutional, democratic value system with courage and self-confidence. (*)
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2. The soldier may not abuse his military appointment for the advancement of party political objectives, but is guided by the principles of impartiality and tolerance.(*)
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3. The soldier acknowledges his responsibility to respect and protect the human dignity and the constitutional rights of all South African citizens.(*)
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4. The soldier is obliged to maintain discipline and to obey legal orders. He is responsible for the execution of this orders. He is aware that orders to commit a crime or to violate the international humanitarian law are illegal and may not be obeyed. He accepts the responsibility for the execution of any illegal orders.
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5. Military superiors of all ranks must set an example in attitude and in execution of their duties. Particularly in:
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accepting personal responsibility for the orders they issue and for the maintenance of discipline.
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acknowledging the restrictions to issue orders only within limits of the national and international law.
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accepting the burden of command and giving priority to the care of their subordinates.
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acknowledging that the authority and powers vested in them are legally restricted and that they do not qualify for personal privileges. (*)
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6.During armed conflict the opposing parties (including the individual soldier) do not have unlimited choice of methods and means in conducting combat operations.
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7.In combat the soldier distinguishes between combatants and non-combatants as well as between military targets and civilian objectives. He only fights combatants and military targets. Military targets may under no circumstances be attacked, when the expected military advantage does not justify the inevitable loss of lives of the civilian population and destruction of property.
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8.In combat the soldier does not treat his opponents maliciously, but respects the protective powers of the international humanitarian law.
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9.In combat the soldier is mindful of those who are defenceless such as prisoners of war, wounded, injured and sick personnel, and civilians under his control.
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