Paphos entered a transitional administrative period on 5 February 2026, when Mayor Phedonas Phedonos was automatically suspended under Article 113(1) of the Municipal Law. This followed notification from the Ministry of the Interior about a criminal investigation that could carry a prison sentence exceeding three years if it leads to a conviction.
Deputy Mayor Angelos Onisiforou assumed mayoral duties to ensure the municipality continues operating without interruption.
Two separate police investigations underway
Authorities are pursuing two distinct lines of investigation. The first began spontaneously after material appeared online claiming to be hospital documents connected to alleged domestic violence, which the mayor’s wife has publicly denied.
The second investigation stems from a woman’s complaint under Article 144 of the Penal Code (rape). Police are actively taking statements and gathering evidence for this case.
Chronology of events
On 26 January, police confirmed the start of an investigation into the alleged past abuse of the mayor’s wife, triggered by online material claimed as hospital documents. The mayor’s wife immediately denied making any complaint, calling the allegations “false and unfounded.”
By 30 January, she had formally requested via her lawyer that police terminate the investigation, which was officially received.
On 3 February, businessman Theodoros Aristodemou provided a detailed statement to Paphos police regarding information he had previously shared publicly.
On 4 February, a woman gave a multi-page statement to authorities about a sexual assault incident dating approximately a decade back. Following this, the Ministry of the Interior activated Article 113, leading to the automatic suspension of the mayor.
Annie Alexui’s role
The material that initiated the first investigation was posted online by Ioanna Fotiou, using the pseudonym Annie Alexui. She is also wanted in a separate case related to data protection violations, publication of false information, and harassment between January and October 2025. Reports indicate she currently resides in Russia under political asylum.
Her online activity triggered the public dissemination of material, making her central to the initial investigation. Authorities continue to verify the authenticity of the documents and any potential illegal disclosure of sensitive medical information.
Investigation into alleged domestic violence
The first investigation examines the alleged abuse of the mayor’s wife. Despite her denials and formal request to end the investigation, police continue to collect evidence. Key questions include the material’s authenticity, how it circulated, and whether any offences were committed regarding the management or leak of personal data.
Sexual assault complaint triggers suspension
The second investigation directly prompted the mayor’s suspension. It involves a woman’s detailed statement regarding a sexual offence, investigated under Article 144 of the Penal Code. Public reports note that this offence can carry a life sentence, though the investigation’s outcome will rely on evidence and testimony, not public speculation.
Statements and the role of Aristodemou
Businessman Theodoros Aristodemou’s 3 February statement covers knowledge he publicly shared in previous years. Investigators will assess what information stems from personal knowledge versus hearsay and what can be corroborated by witnesses or objective evidence.
Article 113 suspension: practical implications
The mayor’s suspension began on 5 February 2026 with the publication in the Official Gazette. During suspension, the mayor receives one-third of his salary. The suspension ends either when the investigation concludes or following final court judgement. If no charges are filed, or the mayor is cleared or acquitted, he resumes duties with full salary restoration.
This process temporarily “freezes” his official functions without implying guilt.
Transitional administration in Paphos
Since 5 February, Deputy Mayor Angelos Onisiforou has assumed mayoral duties. He manages daily signatures, municipal decisions, project oversight, and financial matters while the political leadership remains suspended.
Political party responses
The DISY suspended Mayor Phedonas Phedonos, along with Mayor Pieris Gypsiotis of Lefkoniko, from all party bodies during the suspension.
What is known and what remains open
Confirmed facts include:
- The first investigation began after online material posted by Ioanna Fotiou (Annie Alexui).
- The mayor’s wife denies filing any complaint and requested termination of the investigation.
- The second investigation involves a sexual assault complaint, linked to Article 144.
- The mayor’s suspension under Article 113 is in effect from 5 February 2026.
- Deputy Mayor Onisiforou is acting as mayor.
Open questions remain regarding corroborating evidence, legal evaluation by the Attorney General, and the suspension’s duration. Until both investigations conclude, only the law and due process define the framework: evidence-based inquiries, with judgment reserved for the courts.
Also read: Annie Alexui: Selective handling of revelations sparks debate
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