Paphos, Cyprus. Former Paphos bishop Tychikos on Monday accused Archbishop Georgios and former Paphos mayor Phedonas Phedonos of conspiring against him, as tensions increased over the process to appoint his successor.
Online address
The claims were made in a video address published online by Tychikos hours after supporters gathered outside Paphos municipal hall to protest against efforts by the synod to proceed with the election of his replacement.
In what he described as his “first official address”, Tychikos alleged that “great financial and other interests are at stake” and said he intended to pursue legal action before local and potentially European courts.
“There are people, testimonies and evidence that will reveal the truth,” he said, adding that “there are testimonies and evidence of a conspiracy between his beatitude and the now deposed mayor of Paphos”.
Disciplinary process
Tychikos said the disciplinary process that led to his removal from office was unfair and predetermined.
He said he had not been fully informed of the accusations against him and described the atmosphere during proceedings before the Holy Synod as hostile.
“I felt that no matter what I said, the decision had already been made,” he said.
The former bishop alleged that he faced repeated interruptions while trying to defend himself and was subjected to personal insults, including accusations that he was “a liar”, “incompetent” and “disobedient”.
Claims about proceedings
Tychikos also referred to what he described as “a profound spiritual experience” during the proceedings, saying he repeatedly turned to passages about the trial and condemnation of Jesus Christ while praying alone after being removed from the synod chamber.
“I did not consider it a coincidence,” he said. “I felt it as a sign of comfort and strength from God.”
