Archbishop of Rabat: Resignation Following Sexual Abuse Allegations
The Archbishop of Rabat, Cristóbal López Romero, has resigned following accusations of sexual abuse and inappropriate behaviour made by at least five women.
Archbishop of Rabat: Resignation Following Sexual Abuse Allegations
The Archbishop of Rabat, Cristóbal López Romero, has submitted his resignation after being targeted by accusations of sexual abuse and improper conduct. At least five women have filed complaints against the Spanish prelate, aged 74, according to an investigation by the Agence France-Presse.
The allegations prompted an investigation conducted by the Vatican, which resulted in the cardinal's decision to step down from his position. The churchman denies any involvement in the matter.
The AFP was able to speak with a nun, a former employee of the Catholic Church in Marrakech, who described repeated sexual assaults. In a written testimony addressed to the apostolic nuncio, the Vatican's ambassador to Rabat, another woman reported "inappropriate" gestures from the cardinal, including an attempt at physical contact resembling an attempt at an embrace.
A source from the episcopate also indicated to the agency that three other women had reported similar incidents, particularly within the context of confession.
In a statement to the faithful, the prelate announced that he was stepping down from his duties "in order not to impede the investigation" and that he would not participate in any ecclesiastical activities. He stated that he would continue to cooperate fully with ecclesiastical authorities in the context of the ongoing investigation, whilst denying that he had committed "any assault or sexual harassment".
The Holy See has not yet commented on this matter. Cardinals, chosen by the pope, constitute the most restricted circle of high-ranking Church dignities who participate in the governance of the Vatican. In May 2025, following the death of Pope Francis, numerous media outlets had considered that López Romero had good chances of being elected pontiff.
Source: in.gr
Source: In.gr