From the latest gag reel factory that is African politics comes the funny story that Congo cannot hold elections this year because it is too expensive.

Pierre Kangudia, budget minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo revealed that holding the general elections this year would cost the country $1.8bn. "It will be difficult to think that we can mobilise $1.8 billion this year. At this stage, I prefer to keep a language of sincerity" he said in a press conference.

Elections hardly take place in Congo. For elections to be held, the  Congo's Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) has to register more than 30 million people in a country with a poor transportation network.

Many critics feel this announcement is a ploy by the Joseph Kabila government to hold onto to power. Kabila who succeeded his father Laurent Kabila has been served his two terms. According to Congo's constitution, a third term is illegal.

The delay tactics by the government has led to protests in the country which has killed 50 people. Because of the protests, the government of Congo has shut down the Internet in the country- a move that is fast becoming popular by African leaders who refuse to step down.

Kabila who was expected to step down in 2016 will be vacating power in March 2017, and an interim government will be in place till elections are held later this year.