Paphos mayor Phedonas Phedonos is facing suspension from his duties as police investigate a rape allegation made by a woman who claims he assaulted her a decade ago.
- Paphos mayor Phedonas Phedonos is facing suspension from his duties as police investigate a rape allegation made by a woman who claims he assaulted her a decade ago.
- Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou was informed by police about the ongoing investigation, which is now a matter of serious legal scrutiny.
- In a related matter, Pieris Gypsiotes, the mayor of Lefkoniko, is also under suspension due to a separate domestic violence investigation.
- Once police have gathered all necessary statements and evidence, they will summon Phedonos for questioning. He will have the opportunity to present his account regarding the allegations.
The decision to suspend Phedonos was announced today by the Interior Ministry, following a five-hour statement given to the police by the alleged victim. This statement has prompted an investigation under Article 144 of the Criminal Code, which addresses rape and can result in a life sentence.
Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou was informed by police about the ongoing investigation, which is now a matter of serious legal scrutiny.
In a related matter, Pieris Gypsiotes, the mayor of Lefkoniko, is also under suspension due to a separate domestic violence investigation.
Paphos mayor: Details of the Allegation
The woman’s statement, taken just days ago, recounts events that require thorough examination by law enforcement. Interestingly, businessman Theodoros Aristodemou had previously made a similar allegation against Phedonos.
In response to the gravity of the situation, Police Chief confirmed to Interior Ministry Director General Elikkos Elias that the investigation into the rape allegation is officially underway. The Criminal Code’s definition of rape includes unlawful intercourse without consent or under duress.
Next Steps in the Investigation
Once police have gathered all necessary statements and evidence, they will summon Phedonos for questioning. He will have the opportunity to present his account regarding the allegations.
The suspension of both mayors is effective immediately, with the notification published in an extraordinary edition of the Official Gazette. The Interior Minister, who was abroad during the announcement, will approve the publication upon his return.
Legal Framework for Suspension
According to Article 113 of the Municipalities Law, mayors are automatically suspended when facing investigations for crimes that carry prison sentences exceeding three years. This legal provision aims to uphold the integrity of municipal governance during serious allegations.
Additional Investigations and Secrecy
In addition to the rape investigation, police are looking into another case involving an alleged assault against Phedonos’s wife. However, this matter remains murky, as there is no formal complaint, and the supposed victim has denied the claims and requested that investigations cease. Despite this, police continue to collect evidence on the matter.
Authorities have maintained a high level of secrecy regarding the investigations into Phedonos, including details about the department in charge. In a related incident, an anonymous letter alleging serious criminal acts against him was received by the police, but efforts to advance that case stalled as the individuals named refused to provide statements.
