Former Metropolitan Tikhikos of Paphos disputes his deposition and calls for a halt to the election of a successor

Former Metropolitan Tychicus of Paphos has openly opposed the Holy Synod of the Orthodox Church of Cyprus, demanding that the process of electing a new hierarch to his former cathedra be suspended. According to Orthodoxia.info, the hierarch categorically rejects his deposition, calling it an unjust and predetermined decision, taken without granting him the right to a full defense.

In his official address, Tychicus made serious accusations against Archbishop George of Cyprus, claiming that personal motives and economic interests were behind his removal. In doing so, the hierarch cited links to the suspended mayor of the city, without, however, providing concrete evidence. Despite Tikhik’s demand to stop the election procedure, four archimandrites have now officially submitted their candidacies, which are now under consideration by the synodal body.

To protect his interests, the former metropolitan plans to appeal to Cypriot and European courts, challenging the legitimacy of the church’s proceedings. In parallel, Tikhik expressed disappointment with the actions of the Patriarchate of Constantinople. He noted that his appeal was not considered on the merits, as the discussion in the Phanar shifted to the issues of the Cretan Council and the Ukrainian church problem.

In the final part of the statement, Tychicus clarified that his past apologies should not be interpreted as an admission of guilt in the incriminated acts. He also declared his intention to remain in Paphos, continuing his struggle to regain his status