Vatican Names Successor to Rabat Archbishop Under Probe

Pope Leo XIV has appointed Father Mario Leon Dorado as coadjutor archbishop of Rabat, positioning him to succeed Cardinal Cristobal Lopez Romero, who is facing allegations of sexual assault.

The Vatican announced the appointment on Saturday, saying Dorado will assist the current archbishop and automatically succeed him if he retires or dies.

Dorado, 52, is a Spanish priest and member of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate. He has served in Western Sahara for nearly 25 years and eventually became its apostolic prefect.

The Vatican appointed him apostolic administrator of Rabat in August, following allegations against Romero. An apostolic administrator temporarily oversees a diocese when its bishop is unable to carry out his duties.

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AFP reported on July 8 that at least five women had accused Romero of sexual violence and inappropriate behaviour. Romero was also among the cardinals considered potential successors to Pope Francis in the 2025 papal election.

Moroccan authorities told AFP that no formal complaint had been filed with the country’s judiciary, prosecutor’s office or police.

Romero has denied the allegations, saying he committed neither assault, violence nor sexual harassment. He has stepped aside while the Vatican investigates the claims.

source: Punch News

Content Credit: Azeez Amosun

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