I'm a little late to this discussion but from what I can see I think more is being read into this letter than is really there. It is apparent that the Watchtower wants to dispel the common held notion that PO's are the ones in charge, but what effect this will really have remains to be seen. I'm sure it may have a little effect, but to what avail?
The Watchtower has so many problems facing it, to think that this is somehow a solution to them is laughable. Their message is outdated, young people are leaving in droves, and the flock is getting tired. Come on Brooklyn, you have got bigger fish to fry ;)