No, they can guarantee their computers supply minimum level of computing power to make the network trustworthy, they can also cover transaction costs perhaps, and the block chain is still open for all. They can also offer an exchange and make money that way. Ideally, they can protect the network from corporate and government attack or interference -- keep it somewhat unregulated, promoted, trustworthy and developing.
They can issue to themselves all the initial coins. I suppose they can do it transparently and fairly, or in a more exploitative way to their financial advantage. (another way to make money off it!)
Not sure, but in terms of government, wasn't bringing the power to issue money away from central banks and into the government's treasury what Lincoln did with his greenback and what had him murdered? A government run blockchain would be what Lincoln would do today if he were a hacker!
