Pope Leo XIV's Strategic Appointment in Rabat
On Saturday, Pope Leo XIV officially appointed Father Mario León Dorado as the co-adjutor archbishop of the Archdiocese of Rabat, granting him an automatic succession right. This strategic move comes as the current archbishop, Cardinal Cristóbal López Romero, steps back pending the outcome of a Vatican investigation concerning allegations of sexual misconduct. The archbishopric has been under scrutiny, and this appointment is seen as a critical step in ensuring continuity within the church leadership in Morocco.
Background on the New Co-adjutor Archbishop
Father Mario León Dorado, a 52-year-old Spanish priest and member of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, was previously serving as the apostolic prefect of Western Sahara since 2013. His appointment as the co-adjutor archbishop comes on the heels of his temporary role as the apostolic administrator of the Archdiocese of Rabat, a position he was designated to in August. This new role positions him to automatically succeed Cardinal López Romero when the archbishopric becomes vacant.
The context surrounding this appointment is sensitive, as allegations against Cardinal López Romero have surfaced, accusing him of sexual violence and inappropriate behavior towards at least five women. The cardinal, who has held the position of archbishop since 2017 and became a cardinal in 2019, has publicly denied these allegations, asserting that he has committed no acts of aggression, violence, or sexual harassment. He has pledged full cooperation with the investigation initiated by the Vatican.
Legal experts specializing in sexual violence have characterized the allegations as aggravated sexual harassment and assault, citing the alleged abuse of authority by the cardinal. Under Moroccan law, such offenses carry enhanced penalties when committed by individuals in positions of authority.
It is important to note that the role of a co-adjutor archbishop is to assist the current archbishop and to automatically take over the diocese when the incumbent retires or passes away. This appointment not only ensures the future leadership of the Rabat archdiocese but does not imply any conclusion regarding the ongoing investigation into Cardinal López Romero's conduct. Father Dorado's long-standing commitment to the Catholic community in Morocco, a minority religion in the predominantly Muslim nation, reflects his dedication to fostering dialogue and understanding, as emphasized during Pope Francis's visit to the country in March 2019.
As reported by lopinion.ma.
