Ghana’s 2026 Road Traffic Regulations Ban Preaching on Moving Buses, Sparking Church Backlash
Ghana’s 2026 Road Traffic Regulations prohibit preaching and hawking on public service vehicles while in motion.
In Brief
- •Ghana’s 2026 Road Traffic Regulations prohibit preaching and hawking on public service vehicles while in motion.
- •The ban carries fines of 10–50 penalty units and up to eight months imprisonment, or both.
- •Rev. Kwadwo Boateng Bempah, head pastor of Holy Hill Chapel, claims the restriction is an attempt to gag the church.
- •He vows the church will continue preaching wherever people gather, including buses and even at the back of Okadas.
- •The regulation also extends to hawking on buses in motion, tightening existing restrictions.
Why It Matters
The new ban directly impacts religious freedom and the outreach activities of churches in Ghana, raising concerns about the balance between public safety and freedom of expression. If enforced, clergy and lay preachers could face significant legal penalties, potentially curbing the church’s ability to evangelise in public transport settings and altering how religious communities engage with the public.
Key Details
- Regulation
- Road Traffic Regulations Act 2026 (L.I. 2519)
- Penalty
- Fine 10–50 penalty units, up to 8 months imprisonment, or both
- Prohibited Activity
- Preaching and hawking on moving public service vehicles
- Pastor
- Rev. Kwadwo Boateng Bempah
- Church
- Holy Hill Chapel, Assemblies of God
Context & Background
The amendment to Ghana’s Road Traffic Regulations 2026 extends earlier provisions that already banned hawking on buses in motion, tightening restrictions on commercial and public transport vehicles.
Original Reporting & Sources
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