[nicesave]

I agree with OP that writing a task in a non-core language is concerning, and also agree with you that there might be more going on.

I've worked with both types of team leads -- those that are there because they are technically proficient, as well as those that are good at handling the politics so the team doesn't and relies upon Sr. engineers to guide the project technically.

It's completely situational as to what is appropriate. Are you a 6+ person team in a large org (or in a small dysfunctional org)? Then you want some one who can handle the politics. Are you a 4 person team that owns your company's entire tech stack? Then you want someone who is really technically proficient.

Since OP mentioned the manager of this person, I suspect it's a larger org where politics is king, otherwise they would report to a VP or higher directly.