The D-Day came and everyone gathered. The students began to vote while the teachers watched to prevent any form of cheating. The teachers also voted. Later the votes were counted and announced. The head senior prefect for 2004 was Fredrick. The students cheered as he walked to the centre to take his badge and address the masses.

“It is an honour to be chosen by my colleagues, students and teachers. I promise…”

Dejectedly, Crag ran into the restroom. He refused to open the door till a teacher ordered him to. The teacher, Mrs Nima, kindly encouraged him not to feel so dejected. He returned to the line, beside his friend who shared a sad-but-it-is-OK look. After all the necessary procedures were followed, everyone returned to their respective classes.

Unexpectedly, the newly-elected senior head prefect was fighting! Luckily the two boys were able to be separated and were taken to the head teacher’s office. The students were all ordered to gather again.

“It is a disappointment that after all the teachings, morals and honesty that the teachers have imparted to you, some of you have decided to turn a deaf ear.” The teacher stopped shaking his head sadly before pointing to Fredrick. “During the recently concluded election for the head senior prefect, this boy bribed a group of students to ensure the votes were rigged.”

The students all yelled in commotion.

“This school is only for obedient, honest and corruption-free students. He and his accomplices are not needed here and are henceforth expelled with immediate effect,” the teacher said.

Everyone was in awe as the group was led out of the school. Just after the last lesson for the day, Crag was called into the teacher’s office. With a smile on her face, Mrs Nima pinned the head senior prefect badge to his shirt. “Your essay was quite good and touching. I hope this will go a long way to help with your school fees as well.” Crag couldn’t believe what was happening. Mrs Nima continued, “Tomorrow, you will be officially presented to the school as the new prefect.

“Why did the teachers summon you? Are you in trou—OMG! What is that? Is that the head prefect badge?” his friend yelled excitedly, checking the badge. “You did it, man!” he said, pulling Crag in for a hug while students around them clapped in celebration. He could not wait to show his brother the badge.

***

Tell us: What are your final thoughts about this story?