King Albert II wrath was provoked when Prince Laurent visited Congo, Belgium’s former colony, against the wishes of both king and government. The prince made matters worse Tuesday when his adviser told Humo magazine “the palace plays a bizarre role” in disputes surrounding the monarchy.

A palace official said the king wouldn’t react to “delusions” that only obscure the fact that Prince Laurent should never have gone to Congo. He spoke on condition of anonymity due to standing rules.