The conclave to elect the new Pope has officially begun, with 133 cardinals from around the world gathering at the Vatican to select the successor to the Holy See.
Before the formal proceedings began, each cardinal took an oath of secrecy inside the Sistine Chapel, emphasizing the solemn and confidential nature of the selection process. In line with strict traditions, cardinals were prohibited from bringing cellphones or cameras to preserve the sanctity of the event.
The conclave is taking place under intense global scrutiny, with many observers watching closely for signs of the Church’s direction through the choice of its next spiritual leader.
Among the prominent figures being considered as possible successors to the papacy are Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson of Ghana, Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Cardinal Matteo Zuppi of Italy, Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle of the Philippines, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu of Congo, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of the United States, Cardinal Peter Erdo of Hungary, and Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa of Italy.
Cardinal Tagle, a well-known figure in the Philippines and in the global Catholic community, is among those widely watched, as many Filipinos and Asian Catholics hope to see a representative from the region rise to the papacy.
The proceedings remain entirely closed to the public and media, with the only official updates expected to come from the Vatican itself.
The conclave will continue until a cardinal receives the required two-thirds majority vote, followed by the traditional “Habemus Papam” announcement from the Vatican balcony.
