An equally likely interpretation is that the meritocracy is delivering the desired results from the government's perspective of interests.
Generally people that could work wherever they want and choose to not chase after money will probably go for something that has a high moral value (or is a noble cause) to them, like helping the poor. But not something like this.
I'd imagine that the only thing they might get out if this is political power which should translate into money.
I'm saying these people wouldn't be interested in wasting their time doing such nonsense and be on top of that poorly compensated.
$119,934 is ridiculously low pay for top performers.