Developments are expected in cases involving two mayors, as the Ministry of Interior examines whether the legal framework allows for their suspension from office. The Interior Minister is awaiting formal updates from the Police and the Legal Service before taking decisions under the relevant legislation.
Review of allegations concerning the Mayor of Paphos
Further developments are anticipated in the case of the Mayor of Paphos, Phedonas Phedonos, following statements given to the authorities and responses expected by the Ministry of Interior.
On Wednesday morning, the Ministry of Interior sent a follow-up letter to the Cyprus Police, requesting an update on the case. The letter follows earlier correspondence sent at the end of January, seeking clarification on whether the offences under investigation may trigger Article 113, which provides for suspension from duties.
According to information reported by Alpha, communication has also taken place between the Ministry’s Director General and the Chief of Police. A response from the Police to the Ministry is expected within the day.
Separate case involving the Mayor of Lefkoniko
In a separate development, the Interior Minister is expected to receive, within the day, a legal opinion from the Law Office of the Republic regarding the Mayor of the occupied municipality of Lefkoniko. The most likely scenario, according to the information available, is that the mayor will be placed on suspension.
Clarification on both cases is expected following the Interior Minister’s return later in the afternoon. The Minister is currently in Brussels attending the informal videoconference of ministers responsible for housing.
On Tuesday the alleged victim gave a statement to the authorities in complaints linked to businessman Aristodimou. The deposition reportedly lasted more than five hours and concerns an offence that is alleged to have been committed approximately ten years ago.
Current status of the investigation
At present, Phedonas Phedonos has not been called by the authorities to give a statement. However, this has not been ruled out and may occur in the coming hours.
Further developments are expected as the investigation progresses and as the Interior Minister receives the pending updates and legal assessments.
