The Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana have vowed to continue enforcing a ban on preaching and hawking in vehicles operated by their members, despite the government’s suspension of the implementation of Regulation 141 of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2519).
In a statement issued on October 9, the group expressed disappointment with the government’s decision, arguing that the restrictions are necessary to protect passengers’ comfort, safety and peace of mind during journeys.
The operators insisted that they would not allow preaching or hawking in their vehicles, regardless of the government’s position on the regulation.
“We will resist any attempt to suspend it. No preaching or hawking will be allowed in our vehicles,” the group stated.
Regulation 141 restricts preaching, hawking and other activities considered a nuisance in moving public transport vehicles.
The government’s decision to suspend its implementation followed public debate over the restrictions, with religious leaders and other stakeholders raising concerns about their implications for religious expression.
However, the transport operators maintain that the restrictions are important for ensuring a peaceful environment for commuters.
They have called on the authorities to reconsider the suspension and support the enforcement of the regulation.
The group’s position could create a disagreement between transport operators and the government over the application of the rules, particularly if members proceed with enforcing the restrictions despite the suspension.
Although the regulation has reportedly existed since 2012, its enforcement gained renewed attention following amendments introduced in 2026 that increased penalties for offenders and prompted plans for stricter implementation.
