Trial of suspended Paphos mayor resumes in Paphos

The trial of the suspended mayor of Paphos, Phaidon Phaidonos, resumed on September 10, 2026, at the Permanent Assize Court in Paphos following a recess. The proceedings are being held behind closed doors, a decision granted by the court at the request of the prosecution. Phaidonos faces five serious criminal charges, including rape, indecent assault against a woman, indecent assault with another act, assault causing actual bodily harm, and the administration of a substance capable of neutralizing a person's resistance. The defendant has entered a plea of not guilty to all counts.

Since the trial began in late July, approximately ten prosecution witnesses—primarily police investigators and experts—have provided testimony. Initially, eighteen additional witnesses were expected, but due to an agreement between the parties on admissible facts, the total number of witnesses is expected to be reduced to approximately twenty. A key upcoming witness is the complainant, with the prosecution seeking to have her testify via video link from a location outside the courtroom to ensure her comfort, though the final method of her testimony remains subject to a future court decision. Once the prosecution rests its case, the court will determine if a prima facie case has been established before the defense begins its presentation.