In predominantly Christian Ghana, preaching on public transport is a widespread practice, but a new law may put an end to it. The law, passed by parliament in May, targets preaching and hawking on vehicles while they are in motion, classifying both as a nuisance. Anyone found preaching in public service vehicles faces up to eight months in prison, a fine of up to $52 (£39), or both.
Pastor Boateng Bismark James, 61, has been preaching on commercial vehicles leaving Neoplan station in Accra since 2023. He leads 13 worshippers in prayer for drivers and passengers travelling to destinations across Ghana. Boateng says he preaches on commercial vehicles because not everyone can attend church on Sunday, and some passengers need the message of salvation to repent from their sins.
The new rules have divided opinion, with critics saying preaching on moving vehicles is a nuisance and a safety risk, while supporters argue that evangelism is a Christian duty and should be protected under the freedom of religious worship. Chery Lokko, a passenger, says she prefers to travel in peace and finds the preachers to be a nuisance, citing noise and saliva.
However, others believe that evangelism on public transport is an important way of reaching people who may not attend church. Bernice Nartey, a passenger travelling to Kumasi, says pastors should be allowed to preach, but only with passengers' consent. She notes that the preaching sometimes helps people to repent and find renewed hope.
Boateng and other bus preachers face a difficult choice between adapting their ministry, giving up an important source of income, or risking falling foul of the law. For Boateng, preaching is not only a religious calling but also an important source of income, which has enabled him to take care of his children's education.
Rev Enoch Paul Hayes, a senior pastor at the International Central Gospel Church, does not think the new rules infringe on religious freedom. He urges his fellow pastors not to break the law, suggesting alternative outlets such as social media to spread their message. The Christian Council of Ghana did not respond to requests for comment.
Ghana's constitution guarantees freedom of religion, subject to considerations including public safety. While preaching on commercial buses was first prohibited in Ghana in 2012, enforcement was weak, and the practice remained common. The new law beefs up penalties for those that flout the ban, creating uncertainty for preachers like Boateng and their role in Ghanaian society.
Key points
- The new law prohibits preaching on public service vehicles in Ghana, citing safety and comfort concerns.
- The law has divided opinion, with critics citing safety risks and supporters arguing for the freedom of religious worship.
- Preachers face a difficult choice between adapting their ministry, giving up income, or risking prosecution.
