[atmin]

Not just some member, but the leader. He did know how to behave in this role (including allowing such stories become widespread), he was the leader for 45 years.

[andrei_says_]

This is interesting. Are you implying a leader’s job was to act silly and maintain an image of a not-so-smart but relatable guy while the party was doing its shady deeds? A comic relief mask of sorts?

[pdimitar]

Many dissidents in Bulgaria believed exactly that. "Give the people bread and entertainment", as the Romans said.

[primity]

It's not unheard of for a leader to tell a joke

[istinetz]

[Citation needed], but it was my impression that communist jokes were occasionally spread on purpose by the security forces, just as a sort of valve to release the tension.