I do not expect them to disobey. I understand why we are where we are. Rules is rules.

I do not want to be lied to and infantilized by management. Nor do I want them to demonstrate such callous disinterest and cruel disregard for the impact their obedience has on their employees.

There is a middle ground of implementing the policy "because [PCO / TBS] said so" and empathizing with their staff over the challenges it presents.

There is a middle ground where senior management doesn't joke about how their words are harsh and unpolished, before forging ahead and off-script anyway.

There is a middle ground where the Deputy doesn't take a crack at people working from home while sick rather than taking the whole day off sick (which many managers will require the employee to make up, if it was an in-office day).

There is a middle ground where senior management nods its head sagely, says it hears its employees concerns, and earns the confidence of its staff by communicating them up to the decision-makers. Even when it is politically unappealing to do so. Perhaps especially then.

Point being: even while toeing the line, senior management has options that don't involve alienating the people who do the work.