Omanghana
The government has suspended enforcement of the provision banning preaching and hawking in moving public and commercial vehicles, following public criticism over its implications for religious expression.
The decision, reported on October 9, 2026, concerns Regulation 141 of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2519). The provision prohibits causing or permitting a nuisance, including preaching and trading, while a public or commercial vehicle is in motion.
However, the Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana have opposed the suspension, insisting that preaching and hawking will remain prohibited in vehicles operated by their members.
The group argues that the restriction is necessary to protect passengers’ safety and comfort. In a statement dated October 9, it called for immediate enforcement of the provision despite the government’s decision to put implementation on hold.
The regulation prescribes fines of between 10 and 50 penalty units, imprisonment of up to eight months, or both. Its focus is on activities inside moving vehicles; it does not impose a general prohibition on preaching at transport terminals or in stationary buses.
Religious leaders and other critics have raised concerns that enforcement could restrict evangelism on public transport. Supporters, meanwhile, maintain that passengers should be protected from disturbances during journeys.
The debate has also drawn attention to earlier traffic rules. Legal academic Professor Stephen Kwaku Asare has pointed out that the restriction predates the 2026 regulations, with the latest framework increasing penalties rather than introducing an entirely new prohibition.
The government has yet to publicly outline the full terms of the suspension or confirm whether consultations will lead to amendments. For now, the pause in enforcement does not amount to the repeal of the provision.
Source: Omanghana
