The original author is the individual who can make the change most quickly for you by logging in to PAUSE and transferring ownership, or adding a co-maintainer. Anyone else would first have to take the time to verify the author's intent, or to confirm that he is unreachable, or not going to return to the project. That can take weeks or even months. The author him or herself can make the change in moments, and it requires no further fanfare or waiting period.