The Vatican now has the five judges who will try Rupnik, the artist, theologian, and former Jesuit accused of committing various abuses against dozens of women.
This was announced by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, which explained, in a statement, that the judges were chosen on October 9 and outlined their profiles, although they did so without providing a list of names.
The judges consist of women and clergy, who are not members of the Dicastery and who do not hold any positions within the Roman Curia. The department added that this move aims to guarantee the independence of the tribunal.
The lawyer representing five of the victims, told this outlet that she views the decision positively, but emphasized the importance of ensuring that the victims’ voices are heard during the trial.
LAURA SGRÒ
Lawyer
My clients, five in total, requested 18 months ago to be recognized as injured parties in the trial. We hope their status will be acknowledged quickly so they can actively participate in the proceedings.
This announcement confirms what Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, prefect of the Dicastery, had already stated when asked about the status of the case back in March. At the time, he said they were in the process of selecting judges.
Now, seven months later, with the tribunal formed, the trial against Marko Rupnik is set to begin.
CA
Trans. CRT
