The Vatican has named Father Mario Leon Dorado as coadjutor archbishop of Rabat, placing him in line to succeed Cardinal Cristobal Lopez Romero.

The current archbishop is under investigation over accusations of sexual assault.

Pope Leo XIV approved the appointment, which was announced in a statement on Saturday. As coadjutor, Dorado will assist the sitting archbishop and automatically take over if the incumbent retires, steps aside or dies.

Dorado is a 52-year-old Spanish priest and member of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate. He spent nearly 25 years serving in Western Sahara before becoming its apostolic prefect, and was later appointed apostolic administrator of Rabat after the allegations surfaced.

The claims, first reported in July, involve at least five women who have accused Romero of sexual violence and inappropriate conduct. Romero has denied the accusations and said he is stepping aside while a Vatican inquiry continues. Moroccan authorities have confirmed that no formal complaint has been filed with them so far.

Vatican investigators have already visited Rabat to speak with some of the alleged victims and members of the diocese. Romero’s official term as archbishop is scheduled to end in 2027.

Photo credit: Punch Newspaper