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Outrage Over Pheidippides' 'Pellous' Remark and Subsequent Silence

Published January 26, 2026, 19:18

MEP Pheidippides Panayiotou is at the center of fierce criticism for referring to “pellous” in connection with people with intellectual disabilities. The remark has sparked outrage from organizations representing people with disabilities, with the Paralympic Committee announcing a complaint to the European Parliament. Reactions describe the statement as racist and unacceptable, while demanding a public apology from Mr. Panayiotou. Despite the wave of condemnation, the MEP chose to remain silent and publish videos from his podcast on organized crime and corruption. His wife, Louisa Andreou, denounced a coordinated attack against her family, aimed at politically damaging her husband, denying any report of assault to the police. The case brings back to the forefront older allegations of assault against his wife, which had been filed due to lack of evidence.