The mayors of two towns in Cyprus are on forced leave. This happened because criminal investigations have started against them. The Interior Ministry confirmed this on Wednesday. This rule helps keep public office honest when serious accusations are made.
Mayor Phedonas Phedonos of Paphos is being investigated. A businessman accused him of rape from about ten years ago. Mayor Pieris Gypsiotis of Lefkoniko is also under investigation. He is accused of domestic violence between 2019 and 2023.
A law says elected officials are suspended. This happens if they face charges that could lead to prison for over three years. This law protects public trust during investigations. The mayors will get one-third of their salary during this time. If found innocent, they will get their job and full pay back. If found guilty, they will be fired.
Police started investigating the Paphos mayor after a woman gave her statement. The investigation into the Lefkoniko mayor finished earlier this year. Court cases might start in March 2026.
These suspensions will be official when published. The Interior Minister needs to approve this. This is the first time this law from 2022 has been used like this. Mayor Phedonos was seen taking his things from his office. This shows that public officials are now held to strict rules.