Rome: The process to elect the next pope — the 267th leader of the Roman Catholic Church — began on May 7 as cardinals from around the world gathered in the Sistine Chapel. The new pope will succeed Pope Francis, who died on April 21 at the age of 88 after a 12-year papacy.
The conclave — the secretive election process — will take place behind the locked doors of the Sistine Chapel. While some conclaves have lasted weeks, recent elections concluded in just a few days. The exact duration of time remains uncertain.
Each cardinal writes the name of their chosen candidate on a ballot and places it into a chalice at the altar, accompanied by an oath. Balloting occurs up to four times a day — two rounds in the morning and two in the afternoon. Black smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney signals no decision; white smoke means a pope has been elected.
If a two-thirds majority (89 votes) is not reached after three days, cardinals may take a day’s break for prayer and reflection before resuming voting.
Top contendersMatteo Zuppi (69): A close ally of Francis. Pietro Parolin (70): Secretary of State, seen as a moderate. Pierbattista Pizzaballa (60) Luis Antonio Tagle (67): A liberal dubbed “Francis 2.” Peter Erdo (72): A favorite amongst conservatives. Peter Turkson (76): Would be the first pope from sub-Saharan Africa, if elected. |
