One of the dirtiest political tactics? Side with the reformers. Bet on their ideas, and actually see it through to the end. Even though you don't agree with it. Then take credit.
Its S-level dirty political strategy.

Better yet, keep some to replace the old order. While keeping others out. While promoting low level ppl from the old order into higher authority.
This keeps the most troublesome from gaining power. While keeping the people u displaced from the reforms permanently out.

It also plays multiple levels of divide and conquer. You divide the reformers. You divide the old guard. You divide them against each other.
While you keep the helm of the reforms.
Deng played this. So did a few other politicians in history.