Ghana suspends ban on preaching and hawking in moving vehicles

The Ghanaian government has suspended the implementation of a provision in the Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (L. I. 2519) that prohibited preaching and hawking in moving public and commercial vehicles. The decision follows significant public backlash and concerns raised by religious leaders regarding religious expression and evangelism.

Under Regulation 141 of the new law, offenders faced fines between 10 and 50 penalty units (GH¢120 to GH¢600), imprisonment for up to eight months, or both. While similar restrictions existed under previous regulations, the new law increased the maximum custodial sentence.

President John Dramani Mahama clarified that the measure was intended as a road safety intervention to prevent driver distraction and protect passengers, preachers, and traders from injury. He emphasized that religious activities are not banned entirely, stating that preaching is permitted when vehicles are stationary at stations. The government has initiated further consultations to address the concerns raised by stakeholders.