The decision to place the mayors of Paphos and Lefkoniko, Phedon Phedonos and Pieris Gypsiotis, on automatic suspension until investigations against them are completed dominates Thursday’s newspaper front pages. Other prominent stories include the state of the island’s water reserves, health‑sector issues and a visit by Left‑wing Members of the European Parliament to Varosha.
Alithia, under the headline “Phedonos sidelined until 2028…”, reports that the activation of a provision in the Municipalities Law has resulted in the suspension of Phedonos and Gypsiotis due to ongoing criminal investigations. In another story, the paper writes that water supply for domestic use has been set to cover 90 per cent of consumer demand, despite earlier announcements by the President of the Republic. Elsewhere, it refers to the deadly tragedy off Chios after a collision between a Hellenic Coast Guard vessel and a speedboat carrying migrants.
Politis, with the headline “Two mayors suspended as of today”, reports that the mayors of Paphos and Lefkoniko have been removed from their duties following serious complaints against them currently under police investigation. The paper also notes that only the House President, Annita Demetriou, and the chair of the parliamentary Foreign Affairs Committee, Harris Georgiades, submitted declarations to the official list of MPs who received gifts in the course of their duties. Another story highlights the journey of Paola Frantzi, who began in special education and is now a PhD candidate.
Phileleftheros, under the headline “Shocking testimony against Phedonos”, reports that the Paphos mayor is under investigation for rape following a five‑hour statement by the alleged victim. In another article, the paper cites widespread illegalities in old Nicosia and efforts by authorities to finally put an end to them after decades of tolerance. It also reports that the Health Insurance Organisation has revised its emergency‑care protocol, meaning patients will now be transferred to another A&E department if the hospital they first attend cannot manage their case.
Haravgi, with the headline “Social justice against austerity”, leads with a joint message from AKEL and the Left group in the European Parliament, arguing that social justice and collective political struggle are the only response to austerity policies. Elsewhere, it highlights a strong message of solidarity from the Left during a visit to Varosha. The paper also refers to the decision to suspend the mayors of Paphos and Lefkoniko due to investigations into domestic‑violence allegations.
Cyprus Mail, under the headline “Mayors suspended amid criminal investigations”, reports that the mayors of Paphos and Lefkoniko have been placed on mandatory suspension until the inquiries against them conclude. In other stories, it writes that the body found in Avdimou belongs to a missing Russian businessman, and warns of possible water‑supply cuts in the summer, as reservoir levels nationwide stand at just 11.8 per cent.
Source: CNA