The Democratic Rally (DISY) is facing a significant crisis following allegations of domestic violence against a Limassol Member of Parliament. The accusations emerged after the MP reportedly assaulted his partner during a holiday in Greece over the New Year.
- DISY is expected to release a formal statement regarding the situation tomorrow, once the Law Office provides clarity on the next steps in the legal investigation.
As the situation unfolds, DISY leadership is engaged in urgent discussions at their headquarters on Pindarou Street. Party officials have stated that they will delay any final decisions until the Law Office reviews a police request aimed at stripping the MP of his parliamentary immunity.
In a statement, leadership sources asserted that the party unequivocally condemns all forms of violence but also emphasised the necessity of respecting the presumption of innocence throughout the legal process.
The investigation was triggered on Sunday, 4 January, when a woman reported to Limassol Police that her partner—identified as the MP—had physically assaulted her during their stay in a Greek hotel. Following her return to Cyprus, she underwent medical examinations and provided authorities with a formal statement regarding the incident.
Cyprus’s legal framework allows for prosecution of citizens for crimes committed abroad, as long as the offence is recognised in both jurisdictions and carries a potential prison sentence of at least two years. Under Article 5 of the Criminal Code, this case falls within those parameters.
Currently, Limassol CID has referred the matter to the Attorney General, who is now tasked with petitioning the Supreme Court to remove the MP’s constitutional protection. This protection means that without a specific judicial order, the MP cannot be prosecuted, arrested, or imprisoned while serving his term.
DISY is expected to release a formal statement regarding the situation tomorrow, once the Law Office provides clarity on the next steps in the legal investigation.
