Larger Context

This ticket is the first stepping stone towards single-node role-transition testing. It establishes that generated workloads can begin and run while the connection remains a follower.

Motivation

switch_role workloads must support transitions from either role. Follower-mode execution is therefore a prerequisite for the role-transition work, not a standalone project outcome.

Scope

Track the current role in the model and WiredTiger runner. Add fixed and seeded randomised workloads that initialise in follower mode and use the normal set of permitted operations. Keep the scope focused on the role state and execution support required by the subsequent switch_role ticket.

Acceptance Criteria

• Fixed and generated workloads run while the model and WiredTiger remain in follower mode.
• Supported operations return matching results.
• The model and WiredTiger runner maintain the same current role throughout the workload.
• Existing workload behaviour remains unchanged when switch mode is not enabled.

Outcome

test/model has the follower-mode foundation required to implement synchronous and randomised role transitions.