Allegations of sexual violence rock Rabat archdiocese

At least five women have come forward with accusations of sexual violence against Cristobal Lopez Romero, the 74-year-old Archbishop of Rabat, Morocco. These serious claims have prompted an official investigation by the Vatican, leading the influential cardinal to temporarily step down from his public duties this Tuesday. Archbishop Lopez Romero vehemently denies all allegations.

My investigation involved discussions with a retired church member who, for now, preferred not to disclose the full details of her testimony, but confirmed accounts of repeated sexual assaults. Additionally, I reviewed a written statement submitted by another woman to the apostolic nunciature – the Vatican’s embassy in the Moroccan capital. In her testimony, she described the cardinal’s “inappropriate physical gestures,” including “particularly firm and prolonged embraces,” and an “attempt at physical closeness that could be likened to an effort” to kiss her, which she stated she managed to evade “with great difficulty.” Sources within the diocese also informed me that at least three other women have reported experiencing “similar incidents,” some of these disclosures made during confession.

When contacted regarding these grave allegations, Archbishop Lopez Romero stated that he had “responded to [his] ecclesiastical superiors.” He affirmed his commitment to “continue to cooperate fully with them in the investigation” that has been initiated, steadfastly asserting that he has “committed neither assault, nor violence, nor sexual harassment.” In a separate statement addressed to the faithful of the diocese, he further announced, “During this investigation period, so as not to hinder it, I will withdraw, not presiding over any public celebration, and not participating in any pastoral activity.”

A highly influential cardinal

The Holy See has yet to issue an immediate response to inquiries. Cardinals, chosen directly by the Pope, constitute the most senior echelon of the Church’s hierarchy, tasked with assisting the pontiff in governing the Catholic Church. Cardinals under the age of 80 also hold the crucial responsibility of participating in the conclave to elect the next Pope.

During the conclave held in May 2025, 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 regarded as strong contenders for election to the papacy.