Spanish-born Cardinal Cristobal Lopez Romero, 74, the Archbishop of Rabat in Morocco, steps back from duties following allegations of sexual assault. Multiple outlets report that an Agence France-Presse investigation found at least five women accuse Lopez Romero of sexual assault. One accuser reportedly submitted a written complaint in May to the Vatican embassy in Morocco, according to accounts reviewed by AFP. Lopez Romero denies wrongdoing, and the reports describe him as responding to his ecclesiastical superiors and cooperating with the investigation. Several sources say he announced he was “stepping back” from his role, while the Vatican conducts an inquiry into the allegations. Daily Maverick additionally reports that the Vatican says he suspends himself after the allegations. The accusations and the Vatican review are presented as allegations pending investigation. No outlet cited confirmation of wrongdoing, and Lopez Romero is described consistently as denying the claims.