Rabat, Morocco (Running Africa) — The Vatican has launched an investigation into Cardinal Cristóbal López Romero, the Archbishop of Rabat and one of the Catholic Church’s most senior figures in North Africa, following allegations of sexual assault made by at least five women.
According to reports by AFP, the allegations include claims of unwanted physical contact, prolonged embraces and attempted kissing. The accusations were submitted through a formal complaint to the Vatican’s diplomatic mission in Rabat, prompting the Holy See to open an official inquiry.
López Romero, 74, has temporarily stepped back from his pastoral duties while the investigation proceeds.
The cardinal has strongly denied the allegations, stating that he has never assaulted or sexually harassed anyone and that he intends to cooperate fully with the Vatican’s investigation.
“I have not assaulted or harassed anyone,” López Romero said, adding that he would fully assist investigators throughout the process.
At this stage, no criminal complaint has been filed with Moroccan authorities. However, legal experts have noted that, if substantiated, the alleged conduct could potentially fall within the scope of Morocco’s laws on sexual harassment or sexual assault, particularly given the cardinal’s position of authority.
The investigation adds to continued international scrutiny of the Catholic Church’s handling of abuse allegations, despite governance reforms introduced under the late Pope Francis aimed at strengthening transparency, accountability and safeguarding procedures within the Church.
Before the allegations surfaced, López Romero was regarded as one of the Catholic Church’s most influential leaders in North Africa. He previously served as president of the Conference of Bishops of North Africa and had been identified by some Vatican observers as a potential candidate for the papacy.
The Vatican has not indicated when its investigation is expected to conclude. Church officials have reiterated that the inquiry remains ongoing and that no findings have been reached regarding the allegations.
The case is likely to attract significant attention as the Catholic Church continues efforts to strengthen accountability and restore public trust in its response to allegations of misconduct.
