Overview
- Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu, convicted of financial misconduct in 2023, has formally withdrawn from the upcoming papal conclave following letters from the late Pope Francis urging his non-participation.
- The conclave, set to begin May 7 in the Sistine Chapel, will see 133 cardinal-electors eligible to vote, exceeding the traditional 120 limit due to an exemption granted by Pope Francis.
- Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's secretary of state, is viewed as the leading candidate, representing a continuation of Francis's centrist policies.
- Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, known for his advocacy for inclusivity and compassion within the Church, is another strong contender in the election.
- Other candidates, including Matteo Zuppi, Peter Turkson, and traditionalists like Robert Sarah, reflect the diverse ideological factions within the College of Cardinals.