Quoting Kim

>That was the stated policy for some time, but I think the best summary of
the rules as they were applied in  the 90's would be "inconsistent".
Some times they were applied loosely, at other times not so. Without knowing
the specifics I don't think you can make a good assumption on the basis for
any domain registration being granted.

This may be the case, however (if it is) it should have been picked up upon
renewal 

Marty