In his first public remarks since the anti-monarchy protests began last month, Eswatini King Msawti III has described them as “satanic”.

He said they had taken the country backwards and he announced a $35m (£25m) fund to help pay for repairs to damaged property.

At least 50 people died in the disturbances in Africa’s last absolute monarchy.

On Friday, police fired tear gas and water cannons at pro-democracy protesters in the second biggest city, Manzini.

Opposition supporters called for the demonstration despite being invited by King Mswati III to a meeting to discuss their grievances.