RABAT (MOROCCO)
The South China Morning Post (scmp) [Causeway Bay, Hong Kong]
July 8, 2026
By Agence France-Presse
Spanish-born Cristobal Lopez Romero, who denies wrongdoing, was seen by some as a potential successor to Pope Francis in the 2025 conclave
At least five women have accused the archbishop of Rabat of sexual assault, according to an Agence France-Presse investigation, prompting the Spanish-born cleric to announce he was “stepping back” on Tuesday while the Vatican holds an inquiry.
Agence France-Presse interviewed a retired woman involved in the Church and reviewed the written testimony of another woman who said Cristobal Lopez Romero had sexually assaulted them.
The 74-year-old archbishop denied all wrongdoing when contacted by Agence France-Presse.
At least three other women have been victims of similar acts by Lopez, a diocesan source alleged, but Agence France-Presse was not able to verify their claims as some were allegedly made during confession.
The written complaint, which was sent to the Vatican embassy in Rabat, accused Lopez of “inappropriate” physical contact, including “particularly intense and prolonged embraces” and “an attempt to get physically close” to kiss her.
Lopez said he was “aware of the allegations”, adding that he had “already responded to my ecclesiastical superiors and I will continue to fully cooperate with them in the investigation”.
“I have committed neither assault nor violence nor sexual harassment,” he said.
Lopez also announced he would “step back” from his duties while the Vatican investigates the allegations.
The Holy See did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Chosen by the pope, cardinals form the inner circle of the Catholic Church’s senior leadership and advise the pontiff in governing the Church. Those under 80 also take part in the conclave to elect his successor.
Lopez, a top cardinal, was seen by some as a potential successor to Pope Francis in the 2025 conclave.
No complaint has been filed with Moroccan authorities.
Nadia Debbache, a Moroccan lawyer specialising in sexual violence cases, said the acts the cardinal is accused of could amount to “aggravated sexual harassment and aggravated sexual assault … the aggravating factor being the abuse of authority by their alleged perpetrator”.
Lopez is a member of the Salesians of Don Bosco religious order.
Ordained a priest in 1979, he holds degrees in philosophy and theology and a journalism diploma.
He was president of the Conference of Bishops of North Africa from 2022 to 2025 and the Vatican department for interreligious dialogue from 2020.