Phaedon Case: Difficulty Proving Guilt Without Victim's Testimony, Says Aimilianides

Legal expert Achilleas Aimilianides discussed the difficulties authorities face in proving cases of violence and abuse when the victim refuses to testify. The discussion was prompted by the public accusations against the Mayor of Paphos, Phaedon Phaedonos, and the information released by Ioanna Fotiou (Annie Alexui).

Speaking on the show "ENIMEROSI TORA," Mr. Aimilianides emphasized that the Istanbul Convention provides the legal framework for ex officio investigations, imposing a "state paternalism" to protect victims. However, proving guilt without the victim's testimony remains a "major legal challenge."

Commenting on the Police's ex officio intervention, Mr. Aimilianides called it imperative to maintain public trust but acknowledged that investigations are time-consuming. He stressed that the victim's testimony is the "cornerstone" for proving guilt "beyond any reasonable doubt."

He also referred to the responsibility of lawyers and doctors who are aware of abuse, emphasizing that a lawyer must protect the rights of their client and not violate confidentiality. Finally, he stressed that criminal prosecution is insufficient without a broader framework for the protection of victims.