Mozambique’s government is under fire for buying 45 cars at an estimate cost of $2m (£1.5m) in a time of austerity.
According to independent TV station STV, the vehicles include models from Mercedes, Toyota land-cruiser, Ford Ranger, Hyundai and Peugeot.
Civil society activists point to the fact that this year the government expects to spend almost the same amount – about $2.2m – on purchases for passenger transport.
Government spokesperson Ana Comoana declined to comment on the matter, recommending that journalists contact the National Directorate of State Assets which ordered the vehicles.
Economist Antonio Francisco says the revelation discredits the government’s austerity measures, as it gives the impression that the government “is joking with people”.
Last year, foreign donors suspended their budgetary support after more than $2bn in hidden debts came to light.
