Quite a few readers fell for Friday’s April Fool’s joke about the new licence plates not being treated against rust, because of which they would soon corrode and fall off cars. Motorists were called on to come switch theirs for stickers ordered as pilot with government vehicles at the former Census Office that same morning.
Hundreds did, often ending up at the Administration Building across the street. The quoted official’s name “Liceana Numberto” apparently wasn’t a big enough hint.
Finance Minister Ardwell Irion found himself posting on social media that it had been a prank, as there was nothing wrong with the number plates and they did not need to be changed if already renewed. He said the Receiver’s Office had to turn back people, causing a delay in other services, and asked not to make fun at the expense of civil servants’ and citizens’ time.
The Daily Herald hereby apologises for any inconvenience caused in efforts to keep up this long-standing annual tradition and hopes that – at least looking back – those involved can still see the humour. After all, what is life without a good laugh now and then?
So, sorry, but be ready next year!
