Case closed. Cardinal Becciu will not participate in the conclave. In a brief statement, he indicated that he made this decision in order…
"To contribute to the communion and serenity of the conclave."
He also says he is doing it to obey the will of Pope Francis, something he claims he has always done.
In 2020, the Pope had stripped him of his rights as a cardinal due to alleged mismanagement of Secretary of State's funds.
However, the prelate will continue to participate in liturgical celebrations at the Vatican and in other events, where Pope Francis had no problem greeting him previously.
It is an ambiguous situation that has emerged, only heightened by the pre-conclave meetings. Cardinal Becciu was taking part in the general congregations, and his presence led many to believe he would participate in the election of the next pope.
The cardinal has always maintained his innocence regarding the accusations of embezzlement and fraud. A Vatican tribunal convicted him in the first instance, but the prelate is set to appeal the case this year.
JRB
Trans. CRT
