Lefkoniko, Cyprus. Suspended Lefkoniko mayor Pieris Gypsiotis issued a public statement after being placed on mandatory leave pending criminal investigations, alleging political motives behind the decision.
Mandatory leave under municipalities law
Gypsiotis was placed on leave under the municipalities law, which provides for the automatic suspension of elected officials facing criminal investigations for offences carrying a potential prison sentence of more than three years.
The decision followed updates from police regarding an investigation into alleged domestic violence offences.
Allegations under investigation
According to sources close to the investigation, Gypsiotis is being investigated over allegations involving abuse of his wife and children.
The complaint was reportedly filed by a member of his own family.
Separate proceedings already pending
Separate criminal proceedings are already pending against Gypsiotis in relation to similar allegations said to concern incidents between 2019 and 2023, prior to his election as mayor.
That earlier investigation concluded in early 2024, with a trial scheduled to begin in March.
Gypsiotis’ response
In a statement issued on social media, Gypsiotis sought to reassure residents of Lefkoniko that municipal governance would continue unhindered and that he would remain “engaged in public life” despite his suspension.
He did not directly address the substance of the allegations and described the developments as an attack on his character, saying that those who “chose to instigate this situation against me, for their personal interests and pursuits” would be answered “with patience,” adding, “Soon everything will come to the surface.”
What impact do you think the suspension could have on municipal governance in Lefkoniko?
