Pope Francis passed on early Easter Monday, April 21, leaving a gap in the position he had held since his election in 2013. His death marks the end of a decade-long papacy defined by humility, reform, and global engagement.
Following his passing, a conclave—an assembly of cardinals tasked with electing a new pope—is expected to convene within the next 15 to 20 days. This timeframe allows for the funeral rites, a nine-day mourning period known as the novemdiales, and gives cardinals from around the world time to travel to Vatican City.
The election will be conducted behind closed doors at the Sistine Chapel. Only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote, and a two-thirds majority is required to select the new pope. If no consensus is reached after several rounds, voting will continue until a decision is made.
Several high-profile candidates have emerged as potential successors to Pope Francis. Among them are figures who could make history by becoming the first African or Asian pope in modern times.
1. Luis Antonio Tagle – The Asian Pope Francis
The 67-year-old Filipino cardinal is considered the frontrunner, with betting odds at 3:1. Tagle is known for his warm persona, emphasis on inclusion, and strong advocacy for evangelisation—traits that mirror those of Pope Francis. A close ally of the late pope, Tagle’s deep ties to Asia, where Catholicism is growing rapidly, bolster his chances of leading a globalised Church.
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Vatican News
2. Pietro Parolin – The Diplomatic Veteran
Currently serving as the Vatican’s Secretary of State since 2013, the 70-year-old Italian holds 4:1 odds. Parolin is respected for his diplomatic skills, having led key negotiations with China and Middle Eastern countries. He is seen as a steady, moderate figure who could continue Pope Francis’ legacy while maintaining balance within Church politics.
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Vatican News
3. Peter Turkson – The African Advocate for Justice
Cardinal Turkson, 76, from Ghana, holds 5:1 odds and could become the first African pope in over 1,500 years. Known for his advocacy on issues like climate change, poverty, and economic justice, Turkson formerly led the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development. His selection would represent a powerful message about diversity and justice in the Church.
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Vatican News
4. Peter Erdő – The Conservative Canon Law Scholar
Erdő, 72, hails from Hungary and is a renowned scholar of canon law. He is popular among conservative Catholics and holds 6:1 odds. Should he be elected, it could signal a shift back to traditional Catholic teachings, aligning more closely with past popes like Benedict XVI and John Paul II.
5. Angelo Scola – The Theological Traditionalist
At 82, Cardinal Scola is the oldest among the top contenders. A former Archbishop of Milan, he was a frontrunner in the 2013 conclave before losing to Pope Francis. With 8:1 odds, his advanced age and more conservative views make him a less likely but still notable candidate.
The coming weeks will be critical as the Church prepares for a transition. Whoever emerges as the next pope will shape the direction of the Catholic Church for years to come.
