If that is the strategy, and if such is being competently executed, there won't be any "proof" until after the ax falls.
I have had personal experience with this sort of "good-guy, bad-guy" act from extremely savvy executives. It is possible.
I don't believe that is what is going on here - but it is possible. And I could be astonished like everyone else if that is how things unfold.
I will sip on my drink and watch the show.
No skin off of my back