This Asian Cardinal could be the next Pope; his name is…, he is from…, if he is elected then…
Next Pope at Vatican: Pope Francis passed away on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 due to health complications. He was hospitalized in February of this year due to severe pneumonia. After being admitted for 38 days, he was discharged from the hospital. Pope Francis also suffered from a respiratory infection, but he recovered after treatment. On Monday, he suffered a stroke and bid farewell to this mortal world. Since his passing, speculations about a new pope have begun.
The New York Post listed the following cardinals as likely successors to Pope Francis following his death on Monday:
Cardinal Luis Tagle, 67, of the Philippines
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, 70, of Italy
Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline, 66, of France
Cardinal Willem Jacobus Eijk, 71, of Denmark
Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, 77, of Sri Lanka
Cardinal Robert Sarah, 79, of Guinea
If Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith from Sri Lanka succeeds in reaching the Vatican, it will be the first time someone from Asia ascends to this supreme position. Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith is the Archbishop of Colombo, Sri Lanka. He is seen as a dark horse due to his conservative tendencies and representation of the Global South. He has gained attention due to his traditional stance.
After the death of Pope Francis, Cardinal Malcolm Ranjit’s name emerging as a contender for his successor indicates several signals. According to experts, there has been a monopoly of Europe in the papacy. When Pope Francis ascended to the papacy, he broke centuries of records. He was the first Catholic leader to become pope from Latin America. Pope Francis took stands in several matters that were unconventional, whether it was related to LGBTQ issues or his frank opinions on Gaza, Pope Francis boldly and unconventionally presented his views to the world.
Selection process of the Pope
Within 20 days of the Pope’s death, a conclave of 120 cardinals will take place from the 138 ‘Princes of the Church’. Only those cardinals who are under 80 years of age can participate. Only such cardinals have the right to vote. Voting will take place four times a day until a successor is chosen. After 30 votes, only the top two candidates will be allowed to proceed. Whoever obtains a two-thirds majority will become the next Pope.
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