Paphos mayor Phedon Phedonos has denied allegations he assaulted his wife, claiming he is the target of a “merciless war” by opponents using his family as hostages with “stories that have circulated without result for a decade”.
Phedonos said he welcomes an investigation “to clear my name” and added he will speak after the probe concludes.
“I know those who want to make me disappear are determined. Because they have a lot to lose if I don’t disappear. But I am also determined and I will be present until the end,” he said.
The mayor said in a public statement he learned from media that an ex officio investigation has begun into claims from a woman who appears to be living in Russia.
He said none of the allegations about him and his wife are true and that they have an excellent family with two children who are old enough to understand what is happening.
Phedonos said recent days have seen a domestic alliance of political and economic corruption and organised crime fighting to neutralise its enemies under pressure from upcoming developments.
“A merciless war has already begun against me, with my family as hostage and with stories that have been reproduced without result for about ten years,” he said, adding: “I was expecting you.”
The mayor said corruption networks, organised crime and black political money are destroying the country’s real progress and future in the worst way.
What happens behind the publicity curtain is unthinkable and dangerous for the people and their survival, he said, adding that the power they have established is creaking and they know it.
His political presence and named accusations have disturbed them, which is why they are working together on how to destroy him by misleading public opinion, Phedonos said.
He said he knew and has stated previously that the war being waged against him would be continuous and ruthless. Despite difficulties he faces and is certain he will face, and despite the heavy personal and family cost, he will continue his effort for catharsis, he said.
“Citizens know who I am, what I say and what I do. I trust them,” Phedonos said.
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