The trial of suspended Paphos Mayor Phedonas Phedonos resumes on Thursday after the previous scheduled hearing was adjourned because the prosecution was unable to secure the attendance of additional witnesses.
The case continues before the Permanent Criminal Court of Paphos, with proceedings being held behind closed doors following a court ruling approving a prosecution request to exclude the public from the hearings.
Previous hearing postponed due to witness absence
The last scheduled court session did not proceed after the prosecution was unable to bring forward additional witnesses.
As a result, the case was adjourned and set down for continuation on 10 September.
Around 10 prosecution witnesses have already testified
The evidentiary phase of the trial is ongoing, with members of the investigative team among those who have already given evidence.
According to information available, approximately 10 prosecution witnesses have testified so far.
After the presentation of documentary evidence, the prosecution continued calling witnesses during recent hearings in an effort to substantiate the charges facing the defendant.
Additional witnesses who provided sworn statements during the police investigation are also expected to testify before the prosecution closes its case.
Number of witnesses may be reduced
While about 18 prosecution witnesses were originally still expected to appear, the final number may be lower.
Both sides are understood to be discussing a series of agreed facts, which could reduce the number of witnesses ultimately required to testify. Current estimates suggest the total number of witnesses called may be reduced to around 20.
Complainant's testimony drawing closer
Among those expected to testify in upcoming hearings is the complainant.
Information indicates there may be discussion regarding the manner in which her evidence will be presented to the court.
Possible arrangements include testimony in open court, evidence given from behind a screen, or testimony via videolink from another office within the Paphos court building.
Senior state lawyer leads prosecution
The prosecution is being led by Senior Counsel of the Republic Mikaella Pasiardi, who is representing the state throughout the proceedings before the Permanent Criminal Court of Paphos.
The prosecution continues to present evidence and witness testimony as part of its attempt to establish the allegations against the defendant.
Phedonos denies all charges
Phedonos faces five charges:
- Rape.
- Indecent assault against a woman.
- Indecent assault against a woman by another act.
- Assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
- Administering a drug or other substance capable of stupefying or overcoming a person's resistance.
The suspended mayor has denied all charges and has entered pleas of not guilty.
The trial remains ongoing before the court.
