Vatican appoints apostolic administrator to oversee Rabat archdiocese amid inquiry into cardinal Cristobal Lopez Romero

Sunday 02 August 2026 - 13:00

By: Sahili Aya

Vatican appoints apostolic administrator to oversee Rabat archdiocese amid inquiry into cardinal Cristobal Lopez Romero

The Vatican has appointed a temporary administrator to lead the Archdiocese of Rabat while an internal investigation continues into allegations involving Cardinal Cristobal Lopez Romero, the Spanish-born archbishop who has stepped aside from his governing responsibilities during the process.

The decision marks a significant development in a case that has drawn international attention after several women accused the 74-year-old cardinal of sexual misconduct and inappropriate behavior. The allegations were first reported by AFP in July 2026, prompting the Holy See to launch a preliminary review.

The Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization has named Father Mario Leon Dorado, currently Apostolic Prefect of Laâyoune-Sahara, as apostolic administrator sede plena of the Rabat archdiocese. According to the official communication addressed to members of the archdiocese, he will temporarily assume responsibilities with powers comparable to those granted to a resident bishop.

A transitional authority while the investigation proceeds

An apostolic administrator sede plena is appointed when the current bishop remains officially in office but is unable to exercise his authority fully. In this case, Cardinal Lopez Romero retains the title of Archbishop of Rabat, while his jurisdiction has been suspended during the investigation period.

In a message shared with the faithful, the cardinal confirmed that the Vatican’s inquiry concerns both his personal situation and the wider governance of the archdiocese. He said he would remain the titular archbishop of Rabat but would no longer exercise administrative authority while the process is underway.

Father Mario Leon Dorado, a Spanish priest belonging to the Congregation of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, brings extensive experience in the region. He has served in the Sahara region for nearly 25 years and currently heads the Apostolic Prefecture of Laâyoune-Sahara.

Allegations and Vatican response

The controversy emerged after AFP reported that at least five women had accused Cardinal Cristobal Lopez Romero of sexual violence or inappropriate conduct. At the time, the cardinal had been considered among the prominent figures within the Catholic Church who could potentially play a role in the succession process following the death of Pope Francis.

Cardinal Lopez Romero has denied the accusations, stating that he had committed neither assault, violence nor sexual harassment. However, he announced his decision to withdraw from his duties temporarily to allow the Vatican investigation to move forward.

Moroccan judicial authorities have indicated that no formal complaint has so far been filed before the country’s courts regarding the allegations.

Calls for greater attention to alleged victims

The appointment of a temporary administrator has been welcomed cautiously by groups representing alleged victims and whistleblowers. Sources involved in the revelations, gathered within the recently formed “Zero Tolerance” collective, said they hoped the Vatican’s decision would lead to a stronger consideration of victims’ concerns and provide greater recognition for those who came forward.

Some individuals connected to the case have also claimed they experienced exclusion measures following the publication of the allegations. They are now calling for a transparent process and meaningful dialogue with Church authorities.

The Vatican’s investigation remains ongoing, with its conclusions expected to determine the next steps for the governance of the Archdiocese of Rabat.