Vatican Conclave Begins as Cardinals Vote for Next Pope

The process to elect a new pope is now underway as 133 cardinals gathered in the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday, nearly three weeks after the death of Pope Francis. The cardinals, all under the age of 80, will vote in strict seclusion to choose the 267th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, which counts 1.4 billion followers worldwide.

The first round of voting was scheduled for Wednesday afternoon, but a quick decision is considered unlikely. A two-thirds majority is required to elect a new pope. In keeping with tradition, the outcome of each vote will be signaled by smoke rising from the chapel’s chimney—black for no decision, white for a successful election.

The cardinals are barred from any contact with the outside world for the duration of the conclave. All mobile phones and digital devices were surrendered upon entry to ensure complete confidentiality.

Leading speculation points to Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the 70-year-old Secretary of State and one of the Church’s most senior figures, as a frontrunner. He is also presiding over the conclave due to his seniority.

Pope Francis passed away on April 21 at the age of 88. Recent conclaves have typically concluded within two to three days, but with no clear consensus candidate, this election may take longer.