Five Women Accuse Rabat Archbishop of Sexual Assault

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Rabat, Morocco: The Archbishop of Rabat has stepped back from his duties after at least five women accused him of sexual assault, prompting a Vatican investigation into the allegations.

Spanish-born Cardinal Cristobal Lopez Romero, 74, denied any wrongdoing, saying he had committed neither sexual assault nor harassment. He said he was cooperating fully with the Vatican inquiry and would temporarily step aside while the investigation is underway.

Two women detailed their allegations to Agence France-Presse, while a Church source claimed at least three others had reported similar incidents. One written complaint submitted to the Vatican embassy in Rabat accused the cardinal of inappropriate physical contact, including prolonged embraces and an attempt to kiss the complainant.

No complaint has been filed with Moroccan authorities. Lopez, who has held several senior positions in the Catholic Church and was considered by some as a possible future pope, remains under investigation by the Vatican.

Pic Credit: AFP