The government has suspended the implementation of a provision in Ghana’s 2026 Road Traffic Regulations that prohibits preaching and hawking inside moving public and commercial vehicles.
The decision follows growing public debate over Regulation 141 of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2519), particularly concerns from religious leaders and other stakeholders about its impact on evangelism in commercial vehicles.
The regulation classifies preaching and hawking in a moving public or commercial vehicle as a nuisance. Anyone found in violation could face a fine ranging from 10 to 50 penalty units, imprisonment for up to eight months, or both. At the current value of GH¢12 per penalty unit, the fine ranges from GH¢120 to GH¢600.
The government’s latest decision means enforcement of the provision has been put on hold, although authorities have not yet provided details on how long the suspension will last or whether changes will be made to the regulation.
The controversy intensified after religious figures criticised the restriction. Reverend Dr Kwadwo Boateng Bempah described the measure as an attempt to gag the church, insisting that Christians would continue spreading the gospel.
The restriction itself is not entirely new. A similar provision existed under the 2012 Road Traffic Regulations, although the 2026 regulations introduced a significantly higher maximum prison term.
The Transport Ministry had launched a nationwide public education campaign on the updated road traffic rules as part of efforts to improve road safety and compliance.
The government is expected to provide further clarification on the suspension and the future of the provision.
