The bug is the feature. Firing 90% of the company doesn't just save you a ton of money, and doesn't just trim the fat or rot of a company. It removes any dissidents and skeptics who don't have total, unwavering, boot-licking loyalty. Even Musk fanboys were likely forced out just for questioning whether it was a good idea to fire 90% of them. The slightest hint of independent critical thinking is snuffed out by force, or leaves the company voluntarily when they see the writing on the wall, or they are merely unable to leave.

What else could that maneuver possibly produce except a small army of sycophants?

And then once you have those sycophants, it doesn't matter whether you make good or bad decisions, you will never ever be challenged on them. You don't have to worry about how your orders become reality or if you break any laws along the way, your gang ~~of losers~~ will make it happen and won't ask for a penny of overtime pay.

Hanlon's Razor is dead, at least as applied to Musk, because the malice and stupidity are one and the same.

EDIT: Consideration for H1B