Yes, it's a position of respect, one that is earned, not something you rest on if you are a Corsair. Imagine ancient Rome and the Senate, dick waving gets you killed. That's a reasonable stance to adopt, and something you have to deal with and not default to the usual "'cause I say so". The bottom line is that one AI base less in the Omicrons is good for the Empire, the Elder would have to work it to convince captains otherwise.
What you don't seem to understand is that you need to roleplay your position as leader to truly have it, you have to do what is necessary to make people follow you; and not just rely on having written a nice story about how you rule the world. And that's great, it adds nuances to the Disco experience.
Look at how the Council of Elders usually conduct business, they are exemplary of how NPC faction leadership should handle things within the given structures and rules. They take into account the Corsair way, they extend their respect, and that pays off. But you have to work for it, not just flash it.
