I wish Stalin was wrong

I would like to share an anecdote to the readers.  I believe this anecdote is relevant because of the coming elections.  The story goes like this:

Three applicants for the position of Comelec Commissioner were interviewed by the Chairman of the appointing committee.  “Pedro, what is the total of two plus two?” asked the chairman.  “Four” Pedro answered proudly.  “Juan, what is the total of two plus two?” asked the chairman to the second applicant.  “Five” Juan answered. “Pablo, what is the total of two plus two?” asked the chairman to the third candidate.  Pablo smiled and said “how much would you like it to be?”  Which of the three applicants would be appointed?  It would depend upon the mentality of the chairman.

In a book of quotations I had read, I came upon the words of Joseph Stalin who said:

“It is enough that people know there was an election.  The people who cast the votes decide nothing.  The people who count the votes decide everything.”

Some realistic candidates worry about winning in the voting but losing in the counting.

I just hope Stalin was wrong in saying that.  I wish that adage does not apply in our country.

Chito E. Germino

Paknaan, Mandaue City