Alpha News

Philippa vs Tsikini: 13 Posts Behind the Dispute and Legal Threat Warnings

Published January 16, 2026, 08:33

First Lady Philippa Christodoulidi Karseri has sent a pre-trial protocol to Nicoletta Tsikini regarding 13 posts on a social media platform, which she considers to exceed the constitutional limits of freedom of expression. Ms. Tsikini responded through her lawyer, alleging an attempt to silence her. Legal expert Achilleas Aimilianidis explained that the protocol is part of the new civil procedure code and aims to pre-judicially settle disputes to avoid going to court. The case law of the European Court of Human Rights states that freedom of expression can only be restricted when it conflicts with other constitutional rights, such as the right to personality and private life, and always with proportionality. The pre-trial protocol is a new procedure required before resorting to court, in order to give the other party the opportunity to respond to the allegations and to examine possible settlements. This process aims to relieve the burden on the courts, as well as protect the rights of those involved. According to Mr. Aimilianidis, defamation on social media is treated with the same legal rules as defamation through other means. However, the anonymity of accounts on social networks can make it difficult to identify perpetrators. This case highlights the importance of protecting personality and private life online, as well as the need for a balanced approach between freedom of expression and the rights of others.