In Equatorial Guinea, local lore speaks of a historical bureaucratic edict dating back to the mid-20th century, when census paperwork was strictly regulated. According to tales passed down, census forms could only be submitted if they were completed using handwriting that was "clear and legible," specifying the use of black or blue ink exclusively. The use of pencil, red ink, or any other colors allegedly resulted in automatic disqualification of the form, necessitating a complete redo. This rule, if true, highlights an unusually specific bureaucratic preference that might have aimed to prevent forgery or ensure readability, although verification is elusive. Despite the uncertainty surrounding its official status today, this mandate remains a curious example of the kinds of meticulous paperwork rules that can exist in governmental history. Whether literal or anecdotal, it reflects a bureaucratic culture attentive to detail, illustrating how administrative procedures can sometimes take on unexpectedly precise formatting requirements.
Source / verification note
Reported in local storytelling and a few unofficial historical accounts, no government documents currently confirm this rule.