I see where you're comming from, but that still doesn't add up to me. Then why Richie hasn't officially left the band? If these were the choices, then he clearly left the band for good. Whereas know he's officially still a member, just on not "on tour".

I mean, if you're Bon Jovi and you have indeed forced Richie out of the band, but still have plans to continue without him, wouldn't it make sense to officially announce he's left (and maybe replace him with Phil or just make a "vacant" spot like Alec). I think that would've hurt that short-term, but would've sent a stronger message long-term, if that indeed was the plan.