The 2025 Czech government Bitcoin scandal is a major political controversy in the Czech Republic, centered on a large Bitcoin donation to the Ministry of Justice, which led to the resignation of Justice Minister Pavel Blažek. The scandal began when Tomáš Jiříkovský, a convicted criminal known for operating the dark web “Sheep Marketplace, ” donated 468 Bitcoins—worth about 1 billion Czech koruna (approximately 45 million USD)—to the Ministry. Jiříkovský, convicted in 2017 for crimes including embezzlement, drug trafficking, and illegal arms possession, was released in 2021 and sought to reclaim part of the Bitcoins seized from him. Instead of regaining full control, he donated some to the Ministry of Justice. Justice Minister Blažek accepted the donation without thoroughly investigating its origin or legal ramifications, later defending the decision by interpreting the donation as an act of repentance from Jiříkovský. However, this lack of scrutiny sparked public outrage and suspicions of money laundering.

As pressure mounted, Blažek resigned on May 30, 2025, to shield the government’s reputation. Opposition parties intensified demands for other resignations, including those of Prime Minister Petr Fiala and Finance Minister Zbyněk Stanjura, alleging that senior officials were aware of the dubious origins but failed to act. The High Prosecutor’s Office in Olomouc launched an investigation into possible abuses of authority and money laundering, while the police’s organized crime unit examined the circumstances surrounding the Bitcoin donation and its acceptance by the Ministry. International media also highlighted concerns about the scandal’s domestic political impact and its implications for Czech diplomatic relations. This incident has underscored challenges posed by cryptocurrencies in political and financial contexts, prompting a national debate on regulatory frameworks, ethical standards, and oversight to protect public institutions from abuses linked to digital currencies. As investigations continue and political tensions persist, the scandal’s outcome is expected to influence future policies and government practices in the Czech Republic. Overall, the episode serves as a cautionary example of the vital importance of due diligence and the complexities in managing emerging financial technologies within public governance.