The executive bureau of Democratic Rally (DISY) has decided to suspend the participation of Paphos mayor Phedon Phedonos and Lefkoniko mayor Pieris Gypsiotis in the party’s collective bodies.
Decision taken at executive bureau meeting
The decision was taken during a meeting of DISY’s executive bureau held on Thursday morning, where members examined developments concerning the two mayors.
Both Phedonos and Gypsiotis participate in the party’s political bureau as ex officio members by virtue of their positions as mayors. The executive bureau resolved to suspend their participation until the completion of the investigations and the adjudication of the cases.
Background to the suspension
On Wednesday, police informed the Ministry of Interior of the offences under investigation concerning Phedonos, including a second case, as well as the case involving Gypsiotis. It was subsequently decided to activate the relevant provisions of the Municipalities Law, placing both mayors on immediate suspension from their duties.
Official DISY statement
In a statement issued following the meeting, DISY said its executive bureau had discussed current political developments as well as the planning of the party’s pre-election campaign.
Regarding the two mayors who were placed on suspension by the Ministry of Interior, the statement said it was decided to suspend their participation in the party’s collective bodies for the duration of the suspension.
The party stressed that the investigation of each case falls exclusively under the responsibility of the investigative authorities and the justice system, and that every citizen is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
DISY reiterated its core position that all cases and all individuals must be investigated fully, regardless of the allegations, calling for transparency, oversight and zero tolerance for any form of wrongdoing.