First of all i consider you both i.e a credible witness and an elite user due to all the work that you have done for the betterment of community and the blockchain. :)

Now coming towards the discussion, i think you are right. The feature was prone to manipulation even though it had no direct impact on steem ecosystem / rewards or the blockchain itself.. so good riddance (i think)..
Thank you @themarkymark for your insightful and quick response..