I can't speak to the latter, but the former was not sarcastic and there's nothing to defend. Muddying the independence of arms of government is page one of the autocrat's handbook which you seem smart enough to know. No making laws all by yourself legislators, you will first check with the Ministry of Enforcement! It's an entirely valid form of governance, as Big Men of History will attest, and you're entitled to your opinion on the matter.
