At least five women have come forward, accusing Cristobal Lopez Romero, the 74-year-old Archbishop of Rabat, Morocco, of sexual violence. These serious allegations have prompted an immediate investigation by the Vatican, leading the influential cardinal to step back from his public duties this Tuesday. The Spanish cleric vehemently denies all accusations.
My investigation involved speaking with a retired woman deeply involved with the Church, who, at this stage, chose not to disclose the full details of her account but indicated a pattern of repeated sexual assaults. I also reviewed the written testimony of another woman, submitted directly to the Apostolic Nunciature, the Vatican’s diplomatic mission in the Moroccan capital.
Her statement details what she described as “inappropriate physical gestures” from the cardinal, including “particularly forceful and prolonged embraces.” She also recounted “a physical overture that could be likened to an attempt” to kiss her, which she stated she “barely managed to evade.” Furthermore, a source within the diocese confirmed receiving information about at least three other women who reported experiencing “similar incidents,” some of which were disclosed during confession.
When approached about these grave allegations, Archbishop Lopez Romero stated that he has “responded to [his] ecclesiastical superiors.” He affirmed his commitment to “continue to cooperate fully with them in the ongoing investigation,” while maintaining his innocence, asserting he has “committed neither assault nor violence nor sexual harassment.” In a separate statement addressed to the faithful of the diocese, he announced, “During this period of investigation, so as not to impede it, I will withdraw from public view, refraining from presiding over any public celebrations and not participating in any pastoral activities.”
A highly influential cardinal under scrutiny
The Holy See has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the situation. Cardinals, handpicked by the Pope, represent the highest echelon of Church dignitaries, tasked with assisting in the global governance of the Catholic Church. Those 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 visible and influential cardinals, with several media outlets even labeling him a “papabile” – a term used for cardinals believed to be strong contenders for the papacy.