The trial of suspended Paphos mayor Phedon Phedonos will be held behind closed doors, despite his defence team’s request for open proceedings.
The Permanent Criminal Court in Paphos ruled that the case must proceed privately.
Phedonos faces five charges.
He pleaded not guilty to all counts during the 24 June hearing.
In its decision, the court said the complainant is a witness requiring protection and support.
It noted that, despite strong public interest, safeguarding her private life and ensuring an uninfluenced testimony outweighs arguments for a public trial.
