Yup, try naming one great empire in our history where the elite wasn't corrupt...

Rome? Hell no! They had efficient politicians, do I have to say more?
The greeks? Alexanders empire was destroyed because of the bickering between his generals...
Ottomans? Nope, the janissary army became fat and corrupt, with a hate for change and a talent for killing off sultans.
Russians? There was a reason why the revolution was a possibility you know...
The french? Wine, wine and more wine.
The english? Beer, beer and more money.