At least five women have come forward with allegations of sexual violence against Cristobal Lopez Romero, the Archbishop of Rabat, Morocco. These serious accusations have triggered an official Vatican investigation, leading the 74-year-old Spanish cardinal to step back from his duties this Tuesday. Archbishop Lopez Romero vehemently denies all claims.
One retired church worker, who chose to remain anonymous for now, recounted experiencing repeated sexual assaults during an interview. Furthermore, a written testimony from another woman, submitted to the Apostolic Nunciature (the Vatican’s embassy in Morocco’s capital), detailed her own distressing encounters.
This second accuser described «physical gestures» she found «inappropriate,» specifically mentioning «particularly forceful and prolonged embraces.» She also detailed an incident involving «an attempt at physical closeness that could be likened to an attempt» to kiss her, which she stated she «barely managed to evade.» Additionally, a source within the diocese confirmed receiving reports from at least three more women alleging «similar incidents,» some of which were disclosed during confession.
When questioned about these grave allegations, the Archbishop confirmed he had «responded to [his] ecclesiastical superiors.» He pledged to «continue to cooperate fully with them in the ongoing investigation,» while steadfastly denying that he had «committed any aggression, violence, or sexual harassment.» In a separate statement to the diocesan faithful, he announced, «During this period of inquiry, so as not to impede it, I will withdraw, presiding over no public celebrations and participating in no pastoral activities.»
A highly influential cardinal
The Holy See has yet to issue an immediate response to inquiries regarding the situation. Cardinals, personally selected by the Pope, represent the most senior figures within the Church, tasked with assisting in its governance. Those under 80 years old also hold the crucial responsibility of participating in the conclave to elect the next Pope.
During the May 2025 conclave, Lopez Romero was considered one of the most prominent and influential cardinals. Several media outlets had even identified him as a «papabile,» a term used for cardinals widely seen as having a strong chance of being elected Pope.
