Police are assessing all information relating to the case of Paphos Mayor Phedon Phedonos, according to statements by Police Headquarters Press Spokesman Vyron Vyronos.
Vyronos said police are “assessing all information”, clarifying that the ex officio investigation against the Paphos mayor continues in relation to the alleged abuse of a woman, specifically his wife, in Paphos.
New allegations against the mayor regarding other possible criminal offences which came to light through social media will also be examined.
The Interior Ministry is awaiting an official response from police to decide its next steps – whether or not the alleged assault case is substantiated. If police respond that an issue arises in relation to the Paphos mayor, the Interior Ministry will approach the Law Office, as the government’s legal adviser, to make a final decision on whether to suspend Phedonos.
Conversely, if police judge there is no issue against the Paphos mayor, the Interior Ministry will not seek an opinion from the Law Office nor proceed with any measures, including suspension.
Interior Ministry Director General Elikkos Ilias said Article 113 of the Municipalities Law of 2022, which came into effect on 1 July 2024, sets out cases in which a mayor, deputy mayor or municipal councillor is suspended. He explained one such case is the initiation of an investigation by prosecuting authorities for an offence carrying a prison sentence of three years or more.
Police confirmed receiving a letter from the Paphos mayor’s wife requesting the investigations be stopped. The Paphos mayor, in a social media post, welcomed the proprio motu investigation into the alleged abuse case, expressing confidence it will help restore his name. He declared his determination to continue his fight for vindication to the end, despite pressures and threats he claims to be receiving.
The Paphos mayor, in a public statement, spoke of a “merciless war” against him by an “alliance of political and economic corruption and organised crime”, referring to an “attempt to destroy him at personal and family cost”.
A Paphos Municipal Council meeting has been set for today at 18:00 to examine various pending issues. The previous plenary meeting had been cancelled and rescheduled for today, with no new cancellation so far.
(information from CNA)
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