Phedonas Phedonos trial begins today before the Permanent Criminal Court in Paphos, with proceedings taking place behind closed doors following a court decision.
The court previously ruled that no records of the proceedings may be published, citing concerns over protecting the complainant’s privacy.
The hearing is scheduled to continue from 27 to 31 July 2026, with daily sessions beginning at 9:00am.
Court cites privacy concerns
During the previous hearing, Criminal Court President Lia Markou explained the reasoning behind the decision, noting that the defendant had pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The court highlighted the nature of the alleged offences and the information contained in the case file, concluding that there was a clear risk of violating the complainant’s privacy and affecting her testimony due to fear, distress and possible social stigma.
The judge referred to case law from the European Court of Human Rights involving a rape case, where proceedings were held in private to protect the complainant’s privacy.
Defendant’s rights remain protected
Markou stressed that, regardless of whether the complainant’s allegations are ultimately found to be true or not, she must be able to testify before the court without fear or pressure.
She rejected arguments from the defence regarding the time that had passed since the alleged offences, saying the risk of social stigma remained.
The judge also noted that the fact the complainant is an adult does not prevent a trial from being held privately when special reasons exist to protect her.
She added that the defendant’s rights are fully safeguarded and are not affected by the absence of the public from the courtroom.
Five charges against suspended mayor
The suspended Mayor of Paphos, Phedon Phedonos, faces five charges relating to rape, indecent assault against a woman, indecent assault involving another act, assault causing actual bodily harm, and administering a drug or other substance capable of causing sedation or reducing a person’s ability to resist.
Phedonos has denied all charges.
The trial will continue over five consecutive court days, from 27 to 31 July.
Also read: Alleged prison rape: Inmate says “I was asleep, I don’t know if I dreamed it”
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