The Archbishop of Rabat, a Spanish cardinal, said on July 7 that he would be stepping back from public ministry while a Church investigation takes place into allegations of inappropriate behaviour towards adult women.
Cardinal Cristóbal López Romero, 74, and a member of the Salesian order, told Agence France-Presse (AFP) on Tuesday that he would step away after AFP revealed that at least five women had accused him of sexual assault. The news agency said it had seen complaints sent to the Vatican embassy in Morocco.
On July 8, the Archdiocese of Rabat also released a statement in Romero’s name.
“I am accused of inappropriate behavour towards adult women. This situation has led the Church to open a preliminary investigation. This investigation is ongoing and is being conducted by the Roman Catholic Church, with which I am cooperating,” the statement said.
“During this period of investigation, so as not to hinder it, I will take a step back, not presiding over any public celebration, and not intervening in any pastoral activity, and you will understand,” it added.
“I have committed neither assault nor violence nor sexual harassment,” he continued.
