Cardinal tipped to be pope accused of molesting several women
Cardinal Cristobal Lopez Romero, a potential candidate for the papacy, has stepped back from his duties following allegations of sexual assault from at least five women. The Cardinal denies the accusations, and the Church has opened a preliminary investigation into the matter.
Why it matters
The case involves a high-ranking religious official and highlights ongoing scrutiny regarding sexual misconduct within the Catholic Church hierarchy.
Archbishop of Rabat and apostolic administrator of the Archdiocese of Tangier Cristobal Lopez Romero, is pictured during the ordination ceremony of Father Nicolas Lhernould (not pictured) as bishop of Constantine (Algeria) at the Cathedral of Tunis in the Tunisian capital on February 8, 2020. - Photo by Agence France-Presse RABAT, Morocco - A Catholic cardinal touted as one of the favorites to replace Pope Francis said he was "stepping back" from office Tuesday after an AFP investigation revealed at least five women had accused him of sexual assault.
The article reports on allegations and the subject's denial, maintaining a balanced tone regarding the ongoing investigation.
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