No, I agree with you on the points you make but let me make another point too.
Admittedly the "democratic Illusion" is much more subtle. It has been designed to give folks
the impression that they are actually having a say how a country is being ruled.
Have you ever noticed that regardless of which of the major parties is in charge that it makes
sweet **** all difference to the common man ?
He/she in the end is still shoveling shit in the shit-quarry helping rich people getting richer and getting poorer
themself in the process.
Recommended reading : The Republic by Plato
I'm not sure by your definition I'm considered the common man, but I'm considered middle class here in the US. And to me it definitely does matter who is in charge especially in local elections where there is a more direct impact. They can make conditions better or worse. So I absolutely value my right to vote. I don't always get my way, but I'm very thankful for at least having my say regardless. I would not want to live in a country where I don't have a right to vote.