Rabat Archbishop Crist贸bal L贸pez Romero faces sexual violence allegations from at least five women
via SeneNews1 min read
Archbishop of Rabat, Crist贸bal L贸pez Romero, is facing accusations of sexual violence from at least five women, according to an AFP investigation. These reports have led to a Vatican inquiry and the cardinal's temporary withdrawal from public duties. The 74-year-old Spanish cleric denies the allegations. One woman involved with the Church reported repeated sexual assaults, while another accused the cardinal of inappropriate behavior, including insistent physical contact and an attempted advance she claims to have avoided. A diocesan source indicated that several other women have reported similar incidents, some mentioned during confession. Crist贸bal L贸pez Romero stated he has responded to requests from his ecclesiastical superiors and is fully cooperating with investigators, asserting he committed "neither aggression, nor violence, nor sexual harassment." He announced his temporary withdrawal from public Church life during the procedure, suspending public celebrations and pastoral activities until further notice. The Holy See had not officially reacted at the time of publication. Crist贸bal L贸pez Romero, an influential figure in the Catholic Church, was considered a potential "papabile" for the 2025 conclave. The accusations are currently under investigation, and no official conclusions have been reached by the competent ecclesiastical authorities.
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