To weaken the argument we will have to show that the reason for positive net income was not the CEO's new strategy.

A. The electricity conglomerate opened over thirty-three new profitable offices in rural markets last year. - Not relevant to the reason of the argument.

B. The company's urban markets did not experience substantial changes in terms of either revenues or costs. - Out of scope.

C. The accounting department applied a new accounting regulation that includes as revenue transactions that previously would have not have been recorded until the following year. - Yes and because of this the compnay got positive net income but not from the CEO's strategy.

D. There will be fewer layoffs at the unprofitable divisions because a new union contract allows the company to reduce wages by 10 percent to alleviate financial constraints. - Out of scope. Layoffs are not related to the argument we need.

E. Five years ago, the company's five divisions all met or exceeded the average net income of the hundred largest electricity companies. - Five years ago, who cares? Not relevant.

Answer C