How does the 'iron law of oligarchy' challenge the notion of democratic intentions within bureaucratic organizations?

The 'iron law of oligarchy' suggests that in any large organization, no matter how democratic it starts, a small group of leaders will eventually gain power and control. This idea challenges the belief that bureaucratic organizations can remain truly democratic because, as they grow, decision-making often shifts away from the general members and towards a few individuals. For example, in a school, if only the principal and a few teachers make all the important decisions, the voices of students and other staff may be ignored, leading to a lack of true representation. This concentration of power can create a disconnect between leaders and the people they serve, undermining the original democratic goals. Ultimately, the iron law of oligarchy reminds us that without checks and balances, even well-intentioned organizations can become dominated by a select few.