Paphos mayor to face trial following court panel reshuffle

The suspended mayor of Paphos, Phaidonas Phaidonos, is appearing before the Paphos Criminal Court to answer to four criminal charges, including rape, indecent assault, drugging with intent to commit a crime, and causing actual bodily harm. The hearing was previously adjourned on May 28 after Judge Nikodemos Fakontis requested his own recusal to maintain impartiality. Following a decision by the Supreme Court on June 12, the new bench presiding over case 1817/2026 consists of Lia Markou, Theodoros Symeonidis, and Maria Sokratous. During today's session, the defendant is expected to enter a plea. Should he plead not guilty, the trial is anticipated to commence in September. The Prosecution is expected to request that the proceedings be held behind closed doors, citing the need to protect the privacy and safety of the alleged victim, a measure the defense team, led by Christos Pourgouridis and Epameinondas Korakidis, is expected to oppose.