Carl, I almost forgot:

1. cabal: the artifices and intrigues of a group of persons secretly united to bring about an overturn or usurpation especially in public affairs; also : a group engaged in such artifices and intrigues
2. junta: a council or committee for political or governmental purposes; especially : a group of persons controlling a government especially after a revolutionary seizure of power

Totally interchangeable, and both of them are fantastic words. Personally, I prefer "junta." I am honored to be a member of the junta. A junta. ANY junta.