21.04.2025 13:41
After the passing of Pope Francis, the Catholic world is convening the College of Cardinals to determine its new leader. The global press has scrutinized the prominent names and potential directions ahead of this historic election. Here are the top 5 candidates.
After the death of Pope Francis at the age of 88, the Catholic world has begun preparations to determine its new leader. The College of Cardinals, which will gather in the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican, will elect the new Pope in the coming days.
The election of the new Pope will not only affect the Catholic world but also global politics and social dynamics. Whether a leader who will continue Pope Francis's reformist legacy or a figure who will advocate a return to traditional values will be chosen is eagerly awaited worldwide. The conclave process, which will begin in the coming days, will be a significant turning point in shaping the future of the Catholic Church.
SELECTED BY THE COLLEGE OF CARDINALS The election of the Pope in the Catholic Church is conducted within the framework of centuries-old traditions and strict rules. This process is of great importance both religiously and administratively. The Pope is the highest spiritual leader of the Catholic Church and is elected by the College of Cardinals.
THOSE OVER 80 CANNOT VOTE Cardinals are generally composed of bishops and are appointed by the Pope. However, cardinals who have reached the age of 80 do not have the right to vote. This rule has been in effect since 1975.
The election of the Pope is carried out through a special meeting called a "conclave." This term, derived from the Latin "cum clave" (locked with a key), describes the election process in which cardinals are completely isolated from the outside world in the Sistine Chapel. During this process, cardinals reside at the Domus Sanctae Marthae in the Vatican and have no communication with the outside world.
BALLOTS ARE BURNED The election process proceeds with four votes per day. In each vote, the cardinals cast their votes secretly, and the ballots are burned in a special stove set up in the Sistine Chapel. The color of the smoke that emerges during this process informs the outside world of the outcome of the election.
Black smoke: Indicates that a Pope has not yet been elected.
White smoke: Announces that a new Pope has been elected.
ANNOUNCEMENT FROM THE BALCONY 'WE HAVE A POPE'
When the new Pope is elected, he is asked, "Do you accept your election as Supreme Pontiff?" If he accepts, he is then asked what name he wishes to be called. Following this, the announcement "Habemus Papam" (We have a Pope) is made from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, and the new Pope delivers his first speech to the public.
NEW PAPAL CANDIDATES The College of Cardinals consists of 135 cardinals under the age of 80, and approximately 80% of this number has been appointed by Pope Francis. This situation is interpreted as indicating that the newly elected Pope may continue Francis's reformist line. However, there are also strong candidates from the conservative wing.
Pietro Parolin Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy) Age: 70
Position: Secretary of State of the Vatican (Minister of Foreign Affairs)
Notable Features: Parolin stands out for his diplomatic skills and played a significant role in the rapprochement between the US and Cuba. His character reflects a balance at home and a quest for peace in foreign relations. He is known as a traditionalist but a moderate reformist.
Reputation: Described as the 'pragmatic brain' of the Vatican.
Luis Antonio Tagle Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines) Age: 67
Position: Head of the Vatican's Migrants Office, former Archbishop of Manila
Notable Features: Known as "the Francis of Asia." He is recognized for his emotional oratory, humility, and strong connections with youth. Active in issues of migrant rights and social justice.
Vision: Could represent the growing influence of the Catholic Church in the global south.
Robert Sarah Cardinal Robert Sarah (Guinea) Age: 79
Position: Former President of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments
Notable Features: Known for his strong conservative views. He is recognized for opposing some of Pope Francis's reforms and advocates for the preservation of Latin liturgies.
Support: Has strong support among conservative Catholic circles in Europe.
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu (Democratic Republic of the Congo) Age: 64
Position: Archbishop of Kinshasa
Notable Features: Draws attention with his stance on environmental justice and anti-corruption in Africa. He is one of the leading voices supporting Pope Francis's "Laudato Si" environmental encyclical.
Potential: An African Pope could better reflect the demographic realities of the Catholic world.
Matteo Zuppi Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy) Age: 69
Position: Archbishop of Bologna, President of the Italian Bishops' Conference
Notable Features: A reformist and socially sensitive leader. He is also a former member of the Sant'Egidio peace-oriented Catholic movement.
He served as a mediator in peace negotiations.
Vision: A leader profile that will continue Francis' line, active in social issues and open to the younger generations.