It’s not rhetorical. ML, Leninism is called that because it literally isn’t communism. Otherwise they’d just call it communism. It’s a cunning master plan to build an economy capable of somehow transitioning to communism. How? Good question. Even the ideologies creators didn’t really explain it properly. It literally fits the 3 step meme.

Step 1: slaughter everyone that disagrees with you.

Step 2: ???

Step 3: communism!

My criticism of Leninism isn’t defense of anyone. As an anarchist I’m anti-authoritarian whether they’re liberal/leninist/maoist. You’re all a danger to yourselves and everyone else. Regardless of how much everyone despising each other or constant whataboutism. Under capitalism oligarchs buy our representation. Turn them against us. Putting the boot at our necks. Under leninism. The Vanguard party consolidates power. Killing or imprisoning anyone who is a threat no matter how small. And rewarding friends and family with wealth and power. All the while the boot at the throat of the proletariat they’re supposed to be serving. Absolute power corrupts absolutely. They all need to be torn down.