$45 Million Bitcoin Scandal Triggers Yet Another Power Grab In Czech Republic

Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala barely held on to power this week. His Civic Democratic Party faced a no‑confidence vote on June 18 after opposition parties seized on a $45 million Bitcoin donation that landed in the Ministry of Justice. The motion fell short by seven votes, leaving Fiala’s government intact but shaken.

Opposition United Over Bitcoin Gift

According to reports, ANO, SPD and the Pirates joined forces to challenge the government after Tomáš Jiřikovský, a convicted drug dealer and weapons offender, transferred 1 billion CZK (roughly 470 Bitcoin) to the justice ministry on May 27.

They sold the coins almost immediately, sparking questions about why law enforcement wasn’t involved first. The no‑confidence motion drew 94 votes in favor but needed 101 to pass. Debate ran for more than 24 hours in parliament, and tensions ran high as MPs traded accusations.

Czech Gov’t Faces No-Confidence Vote Over Bitcoin Scandal

Opposition triggers a no-confidence vote after a $45M bitcoin payment from an ex-convict.

Though unlikely to pass, the move could hurt PM Fiala’s coalition ahead of October elections. pic.twitter.com/LAk6JLgwG1

— PiQ (@PiQSuite) June 12, 2025

Justice Minister Steps Down

Based on reports from České Noviny, Pavel Blažek resigned as justice minister on May 30 amid claims he knew about the donation before it arrived. His departure opened the door for Eva Decroix, sworn in on June 10 by President Petr Pavel, to lead the ministry.

Decroix has promised an independent probe and said her team will cooperate fully with investigators. She set a firm tone in her first statement, promising transparency and clear answers for a public eager to trust its leaders again.

This episode has tapped into broader worries about public officials and digital money. Similar issues have popped up elsewhere. US President Donald Trump has made headlines for profiting from a long list of crypto ventures.

Argentine President Javier Milei still faces questions over his role in the Libra token scandal. In each case, the mix of high‑value tokens and political office has stirred debate about ethics and oversight.

Fiala admitted that mistakes were made and told supporters the gift “shook public confidence” in his party. He blamed the opposition for resorting to “dirt‑throwing” and “lies” on social media.

Still, critics say the probe must go beyond political finger‑pointing. If inquiries turn up illegal steps or cover‑ups, more resignations could follow—possibly changing the make‑up of Fiala’s slim majority. With parliamentary elections due in October, every move now will be watched closely.

Featured image from The Conversation, chart from TradingView