Trial of suspended Paphos mayor Phedonas Phedonos continues in court

The trial of the suspended mayor of Paphos, Phedonas Phedonos, continued on October 15, 2026, at the Permanent Assize Court of Paphos. The proceedings are being held behind closed doors. The court session featured the testimony of the complainant, who provided her account via videoconference. She is scheduled to undergo cross-examination by defense lawyers Christos Pourgourides and Nontas Koriakides on October 16.

Phedonos faces five serious criminal charges, including rape, indecent assault of a woman, indecent assault involving another act, assault causing actual bodily harm, and the administration of a drug or substance to overcome resistance. He has pleaded not guilty to all allegations. While the prosecution has already called several witnesses, including a senior police officer from the Criminal Investigation Department, the testimony of a key businessman remains pending due to his ongoing hospitalization in Nicosia.

The court aims to complete the trial before the end of 2026. Once the prosecution rests its case, the judges will determine if there is a prima facie case against the accused. If the court decides the case proceeds, the defense will then call its own witnesses to provide testimony.