New Leadership in the Archdiocese of Rabat
The Vatican has officially appointed Father Mario Leon Dorado as the coadjutor archbishop of the Archdiocese of Rabat, following the withdrawal of Cardinal Cristobal Lopez Romero amid serious allegations of sexual misconduct and inappropriate behavior. The announcement was made on Saturday by the Holy See, marking a significant shift in the leadership structure within the Roman Catholic Church in Morocco. At 52 years old, Dorado brings nearly 25 years of pastoral experience from his ministry in Western Sahara and is a member of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate (OMI). This new role grants him automatic succession rights, meaning he will step into the position of archbishop should the current archbishop retire or pass away.
Background on the Scandal
This appointment comes shortly after reports surfaced detailing accusations against Cardinal Lopez Romero, who is currently 74 years old. According to an AFP report from July 8, at least five women have accused him of sexual violence or inappropriate conduct. The cardinal has publicly denied these allegations, asserting that he has committed no acts of aggression, violence, or sexual harassment. Furthermore, the cardinal announced his withdrawal in light of an ongoing preliminary investigation initiated by the Vatican. It is noteworthy that, as of now, no formal complaints have been lodged with the Moroccan authorities regarding these allegations.
Earlier this month, Mario Leon Dorado was already appointed as the apostolic administrator of the Archdiocese of Rabat, tasked with overseeing the archdiocese temporarily during the Vatican's investigation. Investigators appointed by the Vatican have traveled to Rabat to interview alleged victims and members of the diocese, including two women who had previously spoken with AFP and a whistleblower. Dorado's ascension to coadjutor archbishop significantly strengthens his position within the Catholic Church's governance in Morocco, especially as the ecclesiastical authorities await the conclusions of the investigation into Cardinal Lopez Romero. As of now, no definitive conclusions regarding the allegations have been made public.
As reported by lebrief.ma.
