The detail on the matter is that backseat moderation is fine in discussion because it's part of the truth finding process and being capable of defending yourself against dishonesty is an important part of debates, as is critical thinking.
Anyone can backseat moderate as long as it stays within reason and does not derail the thread. I have seen pretty much every regular of discussion backseat moderate, and it is perfectly fine because that way a good understanding of conduct can be established. It's possible that a random smod may stumble upon your post and infract you for backseat moderating, so it can still be risky (and I could probably lose lmod if someone who actually cares knew I handle it this way). Up to you what you do. vOv
It's not you in particular who got the permission to backseat moderate, it's just that I saw you do it well which is why I complimented you.