THE COLOR OF COMPLIANCE

Minister of Corrections Martin Keel expressed “measured delight” today following the election of Mr. Sukhmanjit Singh Lalli as Streets Commissioner for Moose Knuckle, Idaho—a community previously recognized for its uniform commitment to sameness.

Speaking from his office, Keel described the result as “a refreshing reminder that democracy occasionally decorates itself.” He noted that the Ministry had always encouraged “a spectrum of lawful enthusiasm,” though he emphasized the need to ensure “no shade overwhelms the palette.”

Residents appeared uncertain about how the event occurred. One voter said the ballot “looked perfectly ordinary until it didn’t.” Another stated that Mr. Lalli “seemed friendly, if a bit overdressed for asphalt.” Photographs of the candidate in his turban and high-visibility vest circulated widely, accompanied by captions praising his “commitment to visibility, both moral and literal.”

Keel dismissed suggestions that the outcome represented an ideological lapse. “Our systems are intact,” he said. “Sometimes they express themselves creatively. We applaud diversity when it is spontaneous and quickly contained.” He added that Mr. Lalli’s religious headwear “poses no inherent risk, provided it remains reflective at night.”

The Ministry confirmed that a team of Cultural Alignment Officers will arrive “to assist with aesthetic integration and community reassurance.” Keel stressed that this was “not supervision, merely accompaniment,” describing the initiative as “friendship with clipboards.”

When asked if the Ministry recognized Lalli’s victory as legitimate, Keel smiled faintly. “Every result is legitimate,” he said. “Legitimacy is what makes it ours to improve.” He declined further comment, citing “ongoing harmony.”

In Moose Knuckle, street crews have already begun repainting lines along Main Road to “better harmonize with current leadership.” Citizens were advised to avoid unnecessary crossings until the new color scheme stabilizes.

Late in the day, the Ministry issued a written clarification stating that “Moose Knuckle remains a beacon of cooperative individuality.” The release included an updated slogan: Sometimes Freedom Makes Mistakes!

Officials expect Mr. Lalli to assume office once preliminary orientation concludes. He has reportedly promised to “keep every road open to belief.”

All surfaces remain compliant.