After public servants in eSwatini took to the streets demanding pay increases, King Mswati III has come under fire for "spoiling" his family with a fleet of luxury BMWs.
Formerly known as Swaziland, the monarchy has left opposition party, the People's United Democratic Movement (Pudemo), fuming as it appeared to ignore calls for government employees to be remunerated better, and instead doubled down by ordering 120 BMWs which were delivered on Thursday.
Around 700 public servants rallied in the capital Mbabane on Thursday against the rule of Mswati, whom they accused of draining public coffers.
Pudemo general secretary Wandile Dludlu condemned the purchase of luxury vehicles.
"In Swaziland, public sector workers have not received salary adjustments in three years and the health system has totally collapsed, rendering the poorest of the poor vulnerable," he said in a statement.
"Tertiary institutions have also closed down due to student unrest caused by the regime’s failure to cater for their tuition fees, text book fees, accommodation and other expenses."