Well of course, there is no stand-down if there is no go ahead to start with!
Your point is important.
In every organization the initiative is set by, and is a reflection of, the boss.
The boss didn’t care. It was happening but he didn’t care.
Why stick your neck out. Watch and see if it gets worked out.
The correrallary is that few in the country care even now.
No leadership — no mission.