Don't know who darkflame is but here is Ned saying it in 2017.
In a further motion of decentralization, the Steemit, Inc. controlled primary account, @steemit, which holds approximately 41% of the platform’s Steem Power, will be gradually divested of its holdings in an effort to increase promotion and development of the platform while dispersing voting power. Scott indicated that this will be done in a “gradual multi-year divestment”.
Don't know who darkflame is but here is Ned saying it in 2017.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/rogeraitken/2017/01/17/fintech-steemit-migrating-servers-to-amazon-unveils-blockchain-roadmap/#132b71107dd5
Edit: sorry, posted this twice because I thought you were @holm
How does gradually equate to voting for 20 witnesses that didnt exit until the keys switched hands?
Are you talking about Justins witnesses?
Yes