Ghana Bans Preaching on Public Buses, Citing Safety Concerns

Ghana has enacted a new law that prohibits preaching and hawking on public service vehicles, introducing penalties of up to eight months in prison, a fine, or both. The legislation, passed in May and increasingly enforced in recent weeks, targets these activities while vehicles are in motion, classifying them as a nuisance and citing passenger safety and comfort.

This new regulation marks a significant shift in a country where public transport evangelism has been a widespread and familiar practice. Pastors have often been seen and heard sharing religious messages on long-distance buses, with some travelers offering financial support for their efforts. The law, however, aims to curb this by imposing stricter measures.

Supporters of the ban argue that preaching on moving vehicles can be a distraction to drivers and a safety risk. Chery Lokko, a passenger who prefers peace during her commute, described the practice as a nuisance due to noise and potential spitting. Others have expressed frustration, with one widely shared social media video showing a passenger confronting a pastor attempting to board a minibus.

However, the ban has divided public opinion in Ghana, a nation ranked among the most religious globally. Critics of the law contend that evangelism is a fundamental Christian duty and a protected form of religious expression. They argue that preaching on public transport is a crucial method for reaching individuals who may not attend traditional church services. Bernice Nartey, a passenger traveling to Kumasi, suggested that while preaching can be helpful, it should only occur with passengers' consent.

For many preachers, like 61-year-old Boateng Bismark James, the practice is not only a calling but also a vital source of income to support their families. James, who has been preaching on commercial vehicles since 2023, noted that his earnings have helped fund his children's education, including university fees. "We are very worried, because most pastors here depend on preaching to take care of their families through the monetary gifts offered by passengers," he stated, expressing a hope for an exemption for religious preachers.

The constitution of Ghana guarantees freedom of religion, but this freedom is subject to public safety considerations. Preaching on commercial buses was previously prohibited in 2012 with less severe penalties, but enforcement was inconsistent. The new law strengthens these regulations with enhanced penalties.

While preachers at public transport terminals and markets are unaffected by this specific ban, religious leaders are divided on the new rules. Rev. Enoch Paul Hayes, a senior pastor at the International Central Gospel Church, believes the new regulations do not infringe on religious freedom and encourages fellow pastors to explore alternative methods for spreading their message, such as social media, which can reach thousands.

The new legislation presents a challenge for preachers like Boateng, forcing them to reconsider their ministry, income, or risk legal consequences.