Cyprus Crisis Deepens as Met. Tychikos Seeks Legal Reinstatement from Courts
Met. Tychikos plans to challenge his removal in Cyprus’s civil courts as Abp. Georgios is expected to urge the Holy Synod to abolish the laity's popular vote.
PAPHOS, CYPRUS — As reported by UOJ-Greece, Met. Tychikos has informed the Synodal Metropolitans of the Church of Cyprus of his intention to appeal to the Civil Courts of Cyprus, seeking his reinstatement to the Metropolis of Paphos. The development was disclosed by journalist Natassa Ioannou during a special broadcast on Vergina TV and comes ahead of a critical session of the Holy Synod scheduled for January 8.
At the same time, Abp. Georgios has invited all Metropolitans of the Church of Cyprus to attend the upcoming Synod meeting, where the situation surrounding the Metropolis of Paphos will be discussed. The agenda will also include proposed amendments to the Church’s Charter.
Under the current Charter, when a Metropolis is vacant, the faithful elect a three-person shortlist, from which the Holy Synod selects the new Metropolitan. According to available information, Abp. Georgios is expected to propose abolishing the popular vote, transferring full responsibility for the election of Metropolitans exclusively to the Synod, without participation by the laity.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Met. Seraphim of Kythira condemned Met. Tychikos' removal as unjust.
