A cardinal who was once a powerful figure in the Vatican will not participate in the upcoming conclave to elect the next pope.
Cardinal Angelo Becciu, 76, confirmed he will respect Pope Francis’s directive and stay out of the vote despite maintaining his innocence in a financial scandal.
Becciu was forced by Pope Francis to resign his Vatican role in 2020 amid allegations of embezzlement related to a London property purchase, and subsequently lost his cardinal privileges.
Previously, he was a key Vatican official and considered a contender for the papacy, making his exclusion from the conclave a notable event within the Church.
Cardinal Angelo Becciu held several significant positions within the Vatican, rising through its ranks to become a key figure in church administration. His career included critical roles in managing Vatican operations and overseeing the process of canonization.
Becciu’s advancement through the Vatican hierarchy began with diplomatic appointments in the Holy See’s diplomatic service. He served as nuncio in various countries, gaining experience in church diplomacy and governance.
In 2011, Pope Benedict appointed him Substitute for General Affairs of the Secretariat of State, essentially the Vatican chief of staff.
This position placed him in charge of day-to-day administrative functions and internal communications within the Vatican.
His role allowed him to build strong connections and influence, positioning him as a potential future candidate for higher offices, including the papacy.