The Mayor of Paphos, Phaedon Phaedonos, visited the City Hall to collect his personal belongings following the Ministry of Interior's decision regarding his suspension. The presence of police created some unease among municipal officials, as clear directives had been given to avoid actions that could interfere with evidence. Deputy Mayor Angelos Onisiforou will temporarily take over the mayoral duties. The collection process was completed in about an hour. Everyone left the City Hall without any issues.
In Australia, a couple allegedly killed their two autistic children before taking their own lives, shocking the public. Friends of the family report that the parents faced serious challenges, including financial difficulties and social isolation. A note was found indicating that they had jointly decided on this tragic action. The lack of support from health and social services highlights the challenges faced by parents of children with disabilities. This story emphasizes the need for better support and understanding of the situations these families experience.
The police are conducting an investigation into a rape allegation against Paphos Mayor, Phaedon Phedonos, based on Article 144 of the Penal Code. This investigation arose after a complaint from the alleged victim, who provided a written statement lasting over 5 hours. Additionally, another case of alleged violence against the mayor's wife is under scrutiny, but without an official complaint. Both mayors will be placed on suspension until the investigations are complete. The case dates back about 10 years, making the investigation more challenging.
Irene Haralambidou appears to be distancing herself from AKEL, rejecting a proposal from Stefanos Stefanou to lead an Anti-Corruption Observatory. Nevertheless, she expresses her willingness to assist the party leadership, acknowledging their 15-year collaboration. They have scheduled another meeting for Monday to discuss their future plans. Haralambidou emphasized that she has not made final decisions regarding her future. A meeting is also planned with the Secretariat of the Alma movement to discuss a potential collaboration for the upcoming parliamentary elections.
The Cyprus Paralympic Committee has officially reached out to the EU, requesting an inquiry into the offensive remarks made by MEP Feidi Panayiotou. The term 'peloi' used during a podcast is considered discriminatory and offensive to individuals with intellectual disabilities. These statements contradict the principles of dignity and equality upheld by the EU. The committee is calling for intervention from relevant authorities and adherence to accountability mechanisms. It emphasizes that protecting the dignity of athletes is a fundamental obligation at national and European levels.
The government has decided to extend the reduced VAT rate on electricity for households until March 2027. The Finance Minister announced that the reduced rate will continue due to the high electricity prices. This measure will cost 40 million euros. Its aim is to support households' financial situations in challenging economic conditions. This extension will put pressure on improving disposable income levels.
Paola Frantzi is a dynamic young woman with two master's degrees and is in the final stages of her doctoral studies. In Parliament, she shared her personal experience as a person with a disability, highlighting the challenges of an educational system that fails to support individuals with disabilities. She emphasized the importance of giving voice to children with disabilities in decisions that affect them. She urged the state to listen to their needs and facilitate access to education. Her powerful statement impressed lawmakers and raised concerns about the education of individuals with disabilities.
Jeffrey Epstein was involved in discussions to fund a controversial genetic engineering project aimed at creating a human designed baby within five years. These revelations come from new documents from the U.S. Justice Department, which include emails between Epstein and programmer Brian Bishop. Bishop stated that he needed about $1.7 million annually for the project. Epstein appeared interested in the idea of genetic enhancement. These revelations come at a time when authorities were investigating Epstein's illegal activities.
The Police responded today to the Ministry of Interior regarding the charges against Paphos Mayor, Phaidonas Phaidonos. The response includes details about the ongoing investigations. A woman came forward and provided a statement about a sexual incident that allegedly occurred ten years ago. Additionally, businessman Theodore Aristodimou stated he has information that may assist the investigation. The Minister of Interior may consider placing the Paphos Mayor on leave without needing a legal opinion.
Two women who overcame cancer share their powerful experiences. They discuss the fear and uncertainty brought by their diagnoses and how motherhood and hope gave them the strength to move forward. Psychology plays a crucial role in the healing process. The vital support from their loved ones was key to their recovery. Today, they stand as survivors, proving that life after cancer is possible.
The Cyprus Nurses Union has raised serious concerns about the inadequate care of two patients at Nicosia General Hospital, who suffered cardiac arrest. According to the union’s secretary general, the patients were placed in a non-operational department due to staff shortages. The Health Services Organization responded that cardiac arrests are recorded daily and that overcrowding does not justify the union's claims. Additionally, it was noted that the budget for 2026 has not been approved, affecting the hiring of new staff. This situation raises significant concerns about patient care in public hospitals.
The Permanent Criminal Court of Limassol found the four defendants guilty at first sight for the murder of Thanasis Kalogeropoulos. The defendants face a total of 11 charges, including serious offenses such as conspiracy to commit murder and the use of firearms. During the trial, 75 witnesses testified, and 555 pieces of evidence were submitted. The defendants stated that they would invoke their right to silence and will call defense witnesses. The proceedings are set to continue with another hearing in the future.
The Cyprus Electricity Authority announced the installation of smart meters in several areas throughout February. These areas include Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, Famagusta, and Paphos. The installation process will require a brief power outage of up to 20 minutes. Residents are advised to prepare for the changes, and the Authority apologizes for any inconveniences caused. This initiative aims to improve electricity services.
Turkish entrepreneurs are calling for an update to the customs union with the EU to strengthen ties with Brussels. Through an open letter, they are addressing top European officials, emphasizing Turkey's strategic importance in the European economy. They highlight that the current accession negotiation process is counterproductive and suggest differentiating it. Turkey remains committed to its full EU membership and advocates for enhanced dialogue. Their letter excludes Cyprus to focus on the common challenges faced by the EU.
In Larnaca, officials and stakeholders are expressing dissatisfaction with the delays in the development of the port and marina. They have given the government a 15-day deadline to provide specific timelines for the promised projects. There are also concerns about the proposal from the Prosperity Group. The Development Committee urges all stakeholders to remain united and work together for the success of the projects. The discussion also addressed the involvement of the former Minister of Transport, Giannis Karousos.
Irene Charalambidou will meet today with Stefanos Stefanou for their first discussion since September 3. This conversation is expected to clarify her intentions regarding a specific proposal made to her. If Charalambidou decides to run for election again, she will need to do so with another political party, as her cooperation with AKEL has concluded. Party leaders do not intend to create conflicts but expect a swift decision from her. The proposal made to her pertains to the establishment of an Observatory for corruption and does not seem to align with her political aspirations.
Trade unions are warning of irregularities in the labor market due to companies creating subsidiaries to hire foreign workers from third countries. This practice leads to deregulation of the labor market and raises serious concerns. The Secretary General of SEK, Andreas Matsas, emphasized the need for the competent authorities to investigate this issue. He also highlighted the necessity for dialogue with the President to address the challenges faced by unions. SEK is planning a conference to discuss these issues and other labor challenges.
The Legal Service is completing additional actions regarding the fatal accident on Aglandjia Avenue that occurred in July, resulting in the death of Kyriakos Antoniou. The Traffic Police are awaiting the expert's report to proceed with the case file. It has been over six months since the accident, and the victim's relatives are questioning the delay. The delay is attributed to the collection of all evidence for a clear understanding of the case. Decisions are expected regarding possible criminal charges against the involved driver.
The Court of Appeals acquitted a driver who had been convicted for a fatal road accident after he had already served 2.5 years in prison. The case involved an accident in August 2019, where one driver lost his life and several passengers were injured. The judge noted that there was insufficient evidence for the driver’s guilt. The court ruled that the testimonies did not clearly demonstrate reckless or dangerous driving. Therefore, the decision to acquit the convicted driver was made due to a lack of compelling evidence.
In the Kumas case, authorities are evaluating three offenses related to the former president of the Cyprus Football Association. The first is a conflict of interest, which can result in penalties of up to three years in prison, while the second concerns the laundering of proceeds from illegal activities. The third offense involves the refusal of officials from the CFA to cooperate with the Ethics and Sports Protection Committee. Legal circles believe that there is sufficient evidence to proceed with charges. The case is progressing, with final decisions proving to be crucial.