Just my humble opinion. The rules should be the rules. The more strict the rules, hopefully the better the content. One might argue that they don't have a good photograph for the current week. However, it seems that the challenge is not only about the photograph, but the day or story as well.

What @timsaid decides for the past winners (who did not meet the requirements) is ultimately up to him. Since its his challenge and his rules. While of course using the community for feedback when deciding.

Having said that.... I think another thing that might be helpful, if possible, would be to indicate:

• what the judging criteria is
• who is judging

Looking forward to participating in future MPD challenges!

Cheers!