This archive report was first published on 13 November 2019.
Published on November 13, 2019, reports have emerged that King Mswati III of Eswatini has splurged millions of dollars on a fleet of luxury cars for his large family.
According to reports, the monarch acquired at least 19 Rolls-Royce vehicles and 120 BMWs at a cost of $16 million, leaving many in the South African nation questioning the monarch's priorities.
Opposition leader Wandile Dludlu condemned the purchase, stating, “These cars are for his motorcade and the exclusive use of his children.”
He further accused the King of making the extravagant purchase in a bid to “spoil himself and his family” that includes 15 spouses and 23 children.
The alleged spending spree by King Mswati III comes as 700 public servants staged a go-slow demanding pay rises, citing that they have not had a salary increment in three years.
King Mswati already owns two private jets, including one purchased last year for his birthday at $13.2 million, as well as a $625,000 Rolls Royce, a $500,000 Maybach 62, a BMW X6, and 20 Mercedes Benz S600 Pullman.
With about 40% of Swazis living on less than $1.90 per day, the King's lavish spending has sparked widespread outrage and criticism.
