At least five women have lodged accusations of sexual violence against Cristobal Lopez Romero, the 74-year-old Archbishop of Rabat, Morocco. These serious allegations have triggered an official investigation by the Vatican, leading the influential cardinal to temporarily step down from his public duties earlier this week.

My reporting included a conversation with a retired Church volunteer who, while not yet ready to fully disclose her account, described experiencing repeated sexual assaults. I also reviewed a written testimony submitted to the Apostolic Nunciature, the Vatican’s embassy in the Moroccan capital. This document details the cardinal’s “physical gestures” which the woman found “inappropriate,” citing “particularly forceful and prolonged embraces.” She further described an “attempt at physical closeness that could be likened to an attempt” to kiss her, an advance she claims to have “narrowly evaded.” Furthermore, a source within the diocese confirmed being aware of at least three additional women who reported being victims of “similar incidents,” with some of these disclosures made during confession.

When reached for comment regarding these claims, the Archbishop stated that he has “responded to [his] ecclesiastical superiors.” He affirmed, “I will continue to cooperate fully with them in the ongoing investigation,” while vehemently denying having “committed any assault, violence, or sexual harassment.” In a separate statement addressed to the faithful of his diocese, he added, “During this investigation period, to avoid any hindrance, I will withdraw, refraining from presiding over any public celebrations and participating in any pastoral activities.”

An influential cardinal

The Holy See did not immediately respond to inquiries. Cardinals, selected by the Pope, constitute the Church’s highest-ranking dignitaries, tasked with assisting him in governance. Those under 80 years old also participate in the conclave to elect a new successor.

During the May 2025 conclave, Lopez Romero was considered among the most prominent and influential cardinals, with several media outlets even identifying him as a “papabile,” a term used for cardinals widely seen as having the best prospects for election as Pope.