Justice Minister Blažek Cleared in Bitcoin Donation Controversy Following Audit
Prague,Czech Republic – Justice Minister Petr Blažek was found to have received no direct bitcoin donation,according to an audit released today,resolving questions surrounding a cryptocurrency gift made to former police officer Tomáš Jiříkovský. The audit, initiated following public scrutiny, also outlined recommendations to prevent similar situations in the future.
The controversy erupted after reports surfaced regarding a donation of bitcoin to Jiříkovský, a former officer involved in a high-profile cybercrime case, and subsequent auctions of the cryptocurrency by the Ministry of Justice.Doubts arose regarding the origin of the funds, prompting Blažek’s resignation as minister in May.The case fueled political tensions, with opposition parties calling for the collapse of the cabinet or the removal of Finance Minister Zbyněk Stanjura.
An investigation revealed that Jiříkovský received the bitcoin donation independently, and the Ministry of Justice subsequently auctioned off portions of it. The audit confirmed Blažek was unaware of the initial gift and acted appropriately upon discovering the situation, suggesting improved protocols for handling future donations to ensure transparency and avoid potential conflicts of interest.
Finance Minister Stanjura had previously denied knowledge of the gift prior to it’s public disclosure. The audit’s findings are expected to ease political pressure and allow the government to refocus on other priorities.
