Criminal proceedings have been initiated against a serving mayor over alleged domestic violence, prompting immediate institutional procedures under Cyprus law. The case has triggered formal notification to the Ministry of Interior, with suspension measures expected to follow.
Criminal case registered and Interior Ministry notified
The Legal Service is expected to send a letter to the Ministry of Interior later today, informing it that a criminal case has been filed against a mayor on charges related to domestic violence. Under the applicable legislation, the Minister of Interior is expected to place the mayor under suspension.
According to information obtained by Politis, the individual concerned is the mayor of an occupied municipality.
Public office reportedly concealed
Sources indicate that the mayor allegedly failed to disclose his elected public office, declaring only his profession. The Legal Service was reportedly informed only today that the suspect is an elected official.
It is noted that this is a separate case and is not related to the case involving Paphos Mayor Phaedon Phaedonos.
What the law provides
Under the Municipalities Law:
- A mayor, deputy mayor, or councillor who is under investigation by law enforcement authorities for an offence defined under paragraph (d) of subsection (1) of Article 18, or for any offence classified as a felony under the Criminal Code or any other law carrying a custodial sentence of three years or more upon conviction, is automatically placed under suspension from the date the relevant notification by the Minister is published. During the period of suspension, the mayor, deputy mayor, or councillor is entitled to receive one third of the designated remuneration for the duration of the suspension.
- The suspension provided for under subsection (1) is lifted upon the conclusion of the investigation or the full adjudication of the case, whether through discharge, acquittal, or conviction. A relevant notification by the Minister is published to confirm the termination of the suspension. In cases where the mayor, deputy mayor, or councillor is discharged or acquitted by a criminal court, or where the investigation is terminated without charges being substantiated, the official returns to their duties for the remainder of the term and is entitled to full recovery of the remuneration previously withheld.