Sorry, I didn't see your reply. However since I asked that initial question, I've had it answered.

The code they implemented, is in fact the very same code that's used to freeze accounts that have been hacked, hence them calling it a 'softfork', which sounds a bit dishonest to me.

This really strikes me as a legit "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it" scenario

Hmm, the reason why I don't buy that is because Ned has been using that Steem for various things other than development, including enriching himself. This was not challenged because they feared Ned, all of those top 20 witnesses, were there because Ned wanted them to be.

The @freedom vote was what put them there, and the lack of it would remove them. Hence they towed the line. Now that Ned has sold his stake, they feel emboldened enough to seize them without prior recourse.

Cg