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As contracted, file a derogative opinion piece (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

leader

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'as contracted file a derogative opinion piece' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'file a derogative opinion piece' is the wordplay.
'piece' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'LEADER' is hidden within 'file a derogative opinion'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for leader that I've seen before include "Important (newspaper) article" , "Principal first violinist" , "Party head" , "Chief or front man" , "source of inspiration" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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