In any democratic society, elections serve as a means for citizens to reward or penalize their leaders' performance. Ironically, the only electoral process that retains a minimal potential for citizens to express their dissatisfaction is the election of local district delegates. Municipal delegates don't decide national economic policy, don't control the government, and can't disrupt the Communist Party's monopoly. However, they do represent the only link in the system where citizens have direct contact with the nomination and voting process. What is truly revealing is the ease with which the regime alters its own rules when they no longer serve its needs.