Paphos Mayor Phedon Phedonos has refuted allegations of domestic violence, referring to a merciless war against him that has been raging for a decade now, with such stories being constantly and ineffectively reproduced.
'My family is hostage to this,' Phedonos added, welcoming an ongoing independent police investigation as an opportunity to clear his name, knowing full well that those who wish to eliminate him are determined and have a lot to lose if he doesn't go away.
'But I am also determined and will be here to the very end.'
The Paphos Mayor written statement
Over the past few days, Phedonos noted, a coalition of political and economic corruption and organised crime, under pressure by upcoming developments, is fighting to eliminate its enemies.
'I was expecting you', he underlined.
The western coastal city mayor said he has heard from mass media reports that an independent investigation had been launched against him following allegations by a woman apparently living in Russia.
'Nothing of what is being said about myself and my wife are true. We have a wonderful family and two children that are old enough to understand,' he added, welcoming the investigation as an opportunity to clear his name.
'And then it will be my turn to talk.'
Mr. Phedonos underscored that networks of corruption, organised crime and illicit political funds are destroying the real progress and future of Cyprus, adding that what's happening behind the scenes, constitutes dangerous developments for 'our people and their survival.'
Such circles, he said, are working to eliminate him, by clouding public opinion.
'In spite of these difficulties and the heavy personal and family price I am paying, I will continue efforts at catharsis,' noting that citizens know who he really is.
'They know what I am doing and I trust them', he concluded.