[DigitalToday reporter Yoonseo Lee] Charles Hoskinson flatly denied claims that he is responsible for Cardano (ADA) adoption and ecosystem growth.

The Crypto Basic, a blockchain media outlet, reported on Oct. 1 that Hoskinson said Cardano is a decentralised network and that he does not hold an official leadership role.

The remarks came after a market commentator criticised the Cardano camp, saying it should focus more on expanding adoption, developer activity, scalability, liquidity and real-world use rather than external issues. In the process, the commentator also raised the point that Hoskinson, as Cardano’s founder, has a responsibility to drive overall ecosystem performance.

Hoskinson said, "I am not accountable for Cardano adoption." He added, "Cardano is decentralized," and said some community members misunderstand the relationship between him and Cardano.

Complaints also surfaced about the founder’s role. Hoskinson said, "Founders aren't slaves," rejecting the view that network performance and expansion are an individual founder’s duty.

Hoskinson also denied descriptions of him as Cardano’s chief executive officer. When a community user referred to him as CEO, he drew a line, saying, "I am not Cardano's CEO but the IOG CEO." IOG is a blockchain research and engineering company founded by Hoskinson, and it has played a major role in Cardano development.

The back-and-forth came as long-term holders continue to express dissatisfaction over ADA’s price weakness. ADA has fallen sharply from its all-time high of $3.10 set in September 2021 and traded around $0.2491, about 92 percent below its peak. Some in the community have also said they regret investing in cryptocurrencies.

While distancing himself from direct responsibility for expanding adoption, Hoskinson remains optimistic about Cardano’s long-term outlook. He previously said ADA could enter the top 10 crypto assets by the end of 2026. He has also cited Ouroboros Leios and RealFi as key development tasks for the Cardano ecosystem, stressing the network’s future potential.

The remarks are being read as a debate over who bears responsibility for Cardano’s weak performance. Hoskinson has drawn a line by saying he is not responsible, but he continues to wield influence in discussions over ecosystem development and future direction.

I am not accountable for Cardano adoption. Full stop. You people cannot seem to get it. Cardano is decentralized. I have no official role. Founders aren't slaves.