Church of Cyprus denies claims of collusion between archbishop and mayor

Archbishop Georgios. Photo: ant1live

On April 28, 2026, the Orthodox Church of Cyprus denied allegations that Archbishop Georgios had colluded with the mayor of Paphos to discredit Metropolitan Tychikos. The primate had been accused of fabricating a case against the former Metropolitan of Paphos.

In an official statement, representatives of the Church of Cyprus described reports of collusion as “false and unfounded.”

The press service also rejected allegations of financial misconduct by Archbishop Georgios during the period when he served as ruling hierarch of the Paphos Eparchy.

“If anyone has information or testimony regarding financial irregularities or mismanagement in the Metropolis of Paphos, they are strongly encouraged to contact the Audit Office of the Holy Synod. Anyone in possession of evidence of financial crimes may report it to the competent police authorities. However, those who knowingly lie, apart from the legal consequences of their conduct, should reflect on their conscience or fear God,” the statement said.

As the UOJ reported, the Holy Synod of Cyprus removed Metropolitan Tychikos from the administration of the Paphos Eparchy in May 2025, voting 10 to 6 in favor of his dismissal. The formal grounds cited were persistent disagreements with Archbishop Georgios over ecumenical dialogue, as well as his refusal to receive in Paphos the relics of the Apostle Paul, which were accompanied by a Catholic cardinal.

Metropolitan Tychikos retained his episcopal rank and membership in the Synod but lost his see and the right to stand for the archiepiscopal throne.

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