The Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana have vowed to maintain restrictions on preaching and hawking in their vehicles despite the government’s decision to suspend enforcement of the regulation prohibiting the activities in moving public transport.
In a statement issued on Friday, October 9, 2026, the group expressed disappointment with the government’s decision, insisting that Regulation 141 of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2519), should be enforced to protect passengers’ safety and comfort.
“We will resist any attempt to suspend it. No preaching or hawking will be allowed in our vehicles,” the operators declared.
The group maintained that the restrictions were necessary to ensure a more comfortable travelling environment and prevent activities it considers disruptive to passengers.
The government’s suspension follows public debate over the regulation, particularly concerns from religious leaders and other stakeholders about its implications for evangelism and religious expression in commercial vehicles.
Regulation 141 prohibits preaching and hawking in public or commercial vehicles while they are in motion. Offenders face fines ranging from GH¢120 to GH¢600, imprisonment for up to eight months, or both.
Although the prohibition existed under earlier road traffic regulations, the revised 2026 framework increased the maximum prison sentence, bringing renewed attention to its enforcement.
The operators’ position sets up a potential disagreement over how the regulation will be applied following the government’s decision.
While authorities have suspended implementation, the transport group says it will continue prohibiting the activities in vehicles operated by its members.
