Vitalik Buterin Defends Ethereum Foundation’s Aya Miyaguchi

Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin responded to calls for the resignation of Ethereum Foundation director Aya Miyaguchi, emphasizing that such demands hinder changes within the Switzerland-based nonprofit.

Buterin stated, “No. This is not how this game works,” in reply to a community member advocating for Miyaguchi’s resignation. He clarified that while reforming the Ethereum Foundation (EF) to establish a proper board is a goal, he retains sole authority over new leadership.

He dismissed what he termed an “attempted scapegoat attack” on Miyaguchi, addressing a misinterpretation of a Wired Japan interview suggesting she opposed competitive culture. Buterin condemned derogatory remarks as “pure evil,” asserting they diminish his interest in community desires.

He warned that ongoing pressure creates a toxic environment for talent, stating, “Some of Ethereum’s best devs have been messaging me… YOU ARE MAKING MY JOB HARDER.”

‘Large Changes’ Anticipated at the Ethereum Foundation

Buterin announced that “large changes” in EF leadership are forthcoming, with goals including enhancing technical knowledge, improving communication, attracting fresh talent, and increasing the use of decentralized technology. However, he resisted suggestions for the EF to engage more aggressively in lobbying, noting this could jeopardize Ethereum’s neutrality.

Recent criticism of the EF has spurred suggestions for Miyaguchi’s replacement, mentioning Danny Ryan and Jerome de Tychey. The Foundation has faced scrutiny for not actively participating in the Ethereum ecosystem, yet Buterin indicated plans to stake its nearly $1 billion holdings to reduce regulatory risk.