By Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu, once a towering figure in the Vatican hierarchy, has officially withdrawn from the upcoming secret conclave to elect a new Pope, citing his desire to respect Pope Francis’ prior instructions.
Becciu, who was stripped of his cardinal privileges in 2020 amid a Vatican financial scandal, was convicted in 2023 of embezzlement and fraud, becoming the first cardinal in history to face such a ruling. He is currently appealing the conviction and remains in a Vatican apartment pending the outcome.
Following the death of Pope Francis last week, speculation grew over whether Becciu would participate in the conclave. Despite initially signaling his intent to take part, he reversed course on Tuesday in a formal statement.
“I have decided to obey, as I have always done, Pope Francis’ will not to enter the conclave while remaining convinced of my innocence,” Becciu declared.
Just a week earlier, the Sardinian prelate told a local newspaper that no official effort had been made to bar him from participating in the election of the next pontiff. His withdrawal now avoids what could have become a deeply divisive moment for the Church.
Becciu previously served as “Sostituto” in the Vatican Secretariat of State — a role comparable to a chief of staff to the Pope — before being reassigned to oversee the Congregation for the Causes of Saints.
