Sławomir Mentzen, a contender in the upcoming Polish presidential election, has announced plans to establish a Bitcoin reserve if elected. In a statement reflecting US President-elect Donald Trump's crypto-friendly campaign commitments, Mentzen promises to transform Poland into a hub for cryptocurrencies with favorable regulations, low taxes, and supportive banking policies.
Mentzen reaffirmed his intentions in a November 17, asserting Poland's need for a "Strategic Bitcoin Reserve," emphasizing a vision of economic innovation through cryptocurrency.
He pledged, "If I become President, Poland will embrace cryptocurrency, welcoming low taxes and a cooperative regulatory environment." His optimistic motto, "BTC to the Moon," captures his ambition for national prosperity through digital currency.
In related developments, Lech Wilczynski, CEO of crypto exchange Swap.ly, drew attention to the open-source model policy for a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, established by the Satoshi Action Fund. Wilczynski inquired if Mentzen would adopt this framework upon election. He highlighted the urgency for such measures, stating, "The draft bill is ready for implementation. We must act swiftly and prioritize establishing a strategic reserve."
Mentzen confirmed alignment with the proposal, affirming his support with a decisive "of course." As the Polish presidential elections approach, slated for May 2025, Mentzen has garnered notable support, especially among libertarian and right-wing constituencies.
In adopting such a stance, Mentzen mirrors initiatives taken by other political figures. Donald Trump, during his campaign, proposed a "Strategic Bitcoin Stockpile," analogous to the effort led by Senator Cynthia Lummis, who introduced legislation for a national Bitcoin reserve.
This proposal outlines an ambitious acquisition of one million Bitcoin over five years, aimed at bolstering fiscal stability by hedging against the national debt.
International precedents underscore Mentzen's proposal. El Salvador, under President Nayib Bukele, made history by recognizing Bitcoin as legal tender in 2021, continuously amassing a growing reserve, currently about 5,748.8 Bitcoin strong. Additionally, Bhutan's strategic Bitcoin mining endeavors revealed holdings worth approximately $780 million, as per September data from Arkham Intelligence.