The point is that some awards were actually achieved -- in an objective sense. For example UPN finished as the #1 alliance in both rounds and so on. It would be cool if we had more badges for this round like "longest running alliance at #1" or "alliances with the most kills" or whatever else, that reflect objective measurables. I don't have an issue with the cosmetic changes in principle, for something like "best military alliance of the year" and it ending up at Mensa (which is most likely true), but can see the logic behind the criticism of it being a popularity contest. Especially with newer players/recruits, who may not be aware that it was purely voted on by people on the forums.
tl;dr: My take is that awards should be based on objective measurables, not subjective opinions.