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Transport Operators Slam Gov’t and Vow to Defy Suspension of Preaching and Hawking Restrictions
The Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana have vowed to resist the government’s decision to suspend the implementation of Regulation 141 of Legislative Instrument 2519, which restricts preaching, hawking, and other nuisance activities in moving public transport vehicles. In a statement issued on October 9, 2026, the operators expressed strong disappointment with the government’s decision.
They insisted that preaching and hawking will not be permitted in vehicles operated by their members regardless of the government’s position. A high-ranking government source had earlier confirmed the suspension to Myjoyonline.com amid public debate over the restrictions.
We Will Resist Any Attempt to Suspend It
The transport operators were blunt in their statement about the government’s suspension of Regulation 141. They said they are disappointed in the government’s decision and warned that they would oppose any attempt to suspend the regulation. Furthermore, they maintained that the restrictions would remain in force in their members’ vehicles.
“No preaching or hawking will be allowed in our vehicles,” the statement said. Therefore, their stance directly puts them at odds with the government’s position and raises questions about how the restrictions will be applied in practice.
Regulation 141 Has Existed Since 2012
Regulation 141 of Legislative Instrument 2519 has been in existence since 2012 but was not enforced until a recent 2026 amendment increased the punishment for offenders. Moreover, the amendment came with a pledge to enforce the law strictly.
The transport operators are now calling for the immediate enforcement of Regulation 141, arguing that it would help create a safer and more comfortable environment for passengers. In addition, they said the regulation was necessary to protect passengers’ safety and comfort during journeys.
Religious Leaders and Stakeholders Raise Concerns
The government’s suspension of the preaching and hawking regulation came amid concerns raised by religious leaders and other stakeholders. However, the transport operators have made clear they will not back down from enforcing the restrictions in their own vehicles.
As a result, the situation has created a standoff between the operators and the government over the practical implementation of the law. The group has maintained that it will prohibit preaching and hawking in members’ vehicles regardless of what the government decides.