Cardinal Becciu Withdraws from Upcoming Conclave Amid Controversy
Cardinal Angelo Becciu has officially announced he will not participate in the conclave scheduled to begin on May 7, tasked with electing a new pope following the passing of Pope Francis. His decision comes amidst significant controversy regarding his eligibility to vote due to his recent conviction in a financial scandal.
Last week, speculation intensified around Becciu's potential involvement in the conclave, particularly after it was revealed that he was the first cardinal to be prosecuted and convicted by a lay court. On Tuesday, Becciu affirmed his commitment to the Church, stating, "To care for the good of the Church, I have decided to obey—as I have always done—the will of Pope Francis to not enter the Conclave, while remaining convinced of my innocence."
Despite having claimed his right to vote in previous statements, Becciu justified his withdrawal as a means of promoting communion and tranquility within the Conclave. The Pope had previously taken a controversial stance regarding Becciu's situation, which had resulted in confusion over his status. In 2023, Becciu was sentenced to five years and six months in prison for embezzlement related to the overpriced purchase of a property on Sloane Avenue in London. The case alleged that Becciu, who was serving as the substitute for General Affairs of the Vatican Secretariat of State at the time, misused funds from Peters Pence—the charitable contributions entrusted to the pope and the Vatican's Secretariat of State.
Following the revelations of the investigation, Pope Francis accepted Becciu's resignation from his role as prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints and also his relinquishment of rights associated with the cardinalate—though this did not amount to a full deposition. Becciu retains his title as a cardinal but lost certain privileges, including participation in the conclave, a situation open to varying interpretations within the Vatican hierarchy.
Becciu has since claimed he was reinstated by Pope Francis, a claim not officially confirmed or denied by the Vatican. Currently, the Vatican’s official website lists Becciu among the non-electors, despite him being eligible to vote since he is under 80 years old. Historically, discussions surrounding his voting rights have been contentious, with Becciu asserting that he was denied no formal request or explicit written resignation to exclude him from the conclave.
As the conclave approaches, it is confirmed that Becciu will not be present, leaving 133 electing cardinals to decide the next pope. Initially, two other electing cardinals had also opted out due to health concerns. Out of the total 252 cardinals, many will observe the elections from the sidelines, with the electorate upon those under 80 years of age significantly smaller owing to the recent developments.
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