The Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana have expressed disappointment with the government's decision to suspend the enforcement of a ban on preaching and hawking in moving public transport vehicles. In a press release dated October 9, 2026, the group insisted that Regulation 141 of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2519) must be enforced immediately to protect the safety and comfort of passengers. This regulation has been a subject of public debate.
The operators said they would resist any attempt to suspend the regulation, stressing that preaching and hawking would not be permitted in their vehicles. The group added that it would not allow the prohibited activities in vehicles under its members' operations despite the government's decision. Asonaba Nana Owiredu, National Chairman of the Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana, signed the press release.
Regulation 141 prohibits preaching and hawking inside public or commercial vehicles while they are in motion. The regulation provides for fines of between 10 and 50 penalty units, imprisonment for up to eight months, or both for offenders. The Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana believe that enforcing this regulation is crucial for ensuring passenger safety and comfort.
The development has sparked controversy, with various stakeholders weighing in on the issue. The government's decision to suspend the enforcement of Regulation 141 has been met with resistance from transport operators, who are committed to upholding the regulation. Yaw Barimah, National Public Relations Officer of the Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana, and Charles Danso, representative of the Ghana Committed Association of Ghana, also signed the press release.
The Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana have reiterated their commitment to enforcing Regulation 141, despite the government's suspension. The group believes that allowing preaching and hawking in moving vehicles could compromise passenger safety and comfort. The operators are urging the government to reconsider its decision and allow the regulation to take effect.
The issue has sparked a wider debate about the role of regulation in ensuring public safety and comfort. The government's decision to suspend the enforcement of Regulation 141 has raised questions about its commitment to upholding the law. The Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana are standing firm on their position, citing the importance of enforcing the regulation.
The transport operators' stance has significant implications for the industry and passengers. If the regulation is enforced, it could lead to a reduction in preaching and hawking in moving vehicles, potentially improving passenger safety and comfort. The Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana will continue to resist any attempts to suspend the regulation, and the government will need to consider their concerns.
Key points
- Transport operators in Ghana reject government's suspension of ban on preaching and hawking in moving vehicles.
- Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana insist that Regulation 141 must be enforced immediately to protect passenger safety and comfort.
- The regulation provides for fines and imprisonment for offenders, and its enforcement is crucial for ensuring public safety.
