Cardinal in Morocco steps back after sexual assault complaints

RABAT: The archbishop of Rabat, Cardinal Cristobal Lopez Romero, said on Tuesday he was stepping back from his duties after allegations of sexual assault were raised by at least five women and the Vatican opened an inquiry.

According to an investigation, a retired woman involved in the Church told the news agency that Lopez had assaulted her, while the agency also reviewed the written testimony of another woman making a similar accusation. Lopez, 74, denied the allegations.

A written complaint sent to the Vatican embassy in Rabat accused the Spanish-born cleric of inappropriate physical contact, including particularly intense and prolonged embraces and an attempt to get physically close in order to kiss the complainant.

Lopez said he was aware of the allegations and had already replied to Church authorities. "I have committed neither assault nor violence nor sexual harassment," he said.

He also said he would cooperate with the Vatican investigation. “I have already responded to my ecclesiastical superiors and I will continue to fully cooperate with them in the investigation,” he said.

A diocesan source alleged that at least three other women had experienced similar conduct by Lopez, although the news agency said it could not independently verify those claims because some were allegedly made during confession.

The Holy See did not immediately respond to requests for comment. No complaint has been filed with Moroccan authorities.

Cardinals are appointed by the pope and form part of the Catholic Church’s senior leadership, advising the pontiff on Church governance. Those under the age of 80 also take part in a conclave to elect a new pope. Lopez had been viewed by some as a possible successor to Pope Francis in the 2025 conclave.