Blog in DM has a good analysis of Rabbinic abuse of power (though he did not call it that).
I agree with his analysis but take it a step further. Not only do the Rabbonim conceal the truth from the people, they cloak it in daas torah, thereby disrespecting the vast majority of the public who do realize that there is a power play happening rather than a true fight for truth. That is a travesty and an abuse of power.

When the Rabbonim abuse their power and influence and use it for personal kavod or some othe ragenda that is not truth, they hurt everybody. People respect the Rabbonim less (even the honest ones with integrity) and people will hesitate from conferring with the spiritual leaders on issues that really do need consultation.