Vatican appoints interim administrator for Rabat archdiocese amid assault allegations

The Vatican has named Father Mario Leon Dorado, the Apostolic Prefect of Western Sahara, as apostolic administrator (sede plena) of the Archdiocese of Rabat in Morocco. He will exercise all the rights and faculties of a resident bishop while the archdiocese is overseen during the investigation.

Archbishop Cristobal Lopez Romero, 74, stepped aside after AFP reported that at least five women accused him of sexual assault. Romero denies any wrongdoing and will remain the titular bishop of Rabat, but his jurisdiction is suspended pending the Holy See’s inquiry. No formal complaint has yet been filed with Moroccan authorities.

The Vatican’s statement said, "This decision has been taken pending the results of the investigation conducted by the Holy See," and indicated that the appointment aims to ensure proper governance of the archdiocese and to give victims and whistle‑blowers a clearer avenue for consideration.