Paphos Mayor Faïdōn Faïdōnos Appears Before Court on Rape and Assault Charges

The suspended mayor of Paphos, Faïdōn Faïdōnos, appeared before the Permanent Criminal Court of Paphos on charges that include rape, indecent assault, aggravated assault while the victim was intoxicated, and causing bodily injury. Prosecutors have requested that the trial be conducted behind closed doors to protect the privacy of the alleged victim, citing relevant law on victim and witness protection.

Faïdōnos’s defence team, led by lawyer Christos Pourgouridis, indicated they will oppose any such request, arguing that a criminal indictment must first be read publicly before a closed‑door hearing can be considered. The court is also hearing a new panel of judges after the removal of Judge Nikodimos Fakontis. The mayor will be asked to enter a plea once the charges are formally announced.