judge conduct — judge conduct — The Union of Cyprus Journalists (UCJ) has publicly condemned the behaviour of British Sovereign Base Areas judge Carl Gunsley, following his conduct during a court hearing in Dhekelia on July 2, 2026. The case involved the father of two children, aged 8 and 10, who tragically died in a locked car in Xylophagou.
According to reports received by the UCJ board from journalists present at the remand hearing, Judge Gunsley displayed an offensive demeanor, engaging in argumentative exchanges that many found arrogant. The UCJ expressed that his warnings about potential criminal consequences for journalists who did not show respect for the court were inappropriate and amounted to an unwarranted threat against the press.
“Journalism cannot operate under threats. Freedom of expression cannot be restricted by any judicial officer of any court,” the UCJ asserted, highlighting the essential role of a free press in society.
Notably, the UCJ pointed out that this is not the first instance of such conduct. They described the judge’s approach as reminiscent of an outdated era, in stark contrast to the collaborative and respectful relationship that should exist between the judiciary and the media. The union emphasised that any obstruction of journalistic work, regardless of its source, is unacceptable.
The heartbreaking case revolves around the detention of the 30-year-old father, who is facing serious charges for causing the deaths of his children through a reckless act. The British Bases Court has mandated his detention until the trial, which is set to begin on July 16, after Judge Gunsley denied a bail application. He justified this decision by citing the seriousness of the charges and the father’s insufficient ties to the British Bases, suggesting a risk of flight.
Defence lawyer Andreana Klaedi confirmed that a senior judge from England will oversee the proceedings, indicating the case’s high profile and the serious ramifications it carries for the family involved.
This incident falls under the jurisdiction of the British Bases, as the unfortunate events occurred within the Dhekelia Sovereign Base Area. Legally, offences committed here are prosecuted under British legislation, rather than that of the Republic of Cyprus, with relevant cases typically heard in SBA courts located in Episkopi and Dhekelia.
