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Cardinal Angelo Becciu, central to a high-profile Vatican trial, announced on Tuesday his decision to refrain from participating in the forthcoming conclave that will elect a new pope, citing the need to prioritize “the good of the church.” This decision concluded several days of speculation surrounding his involvement following the passing of Pope Francis.
Becciu, who was convicted of fraud and embezzlement in 2023, has been a focal point of discussions since Francis’ death. Initially, after a fall from grace in 2020, Becciu claimed he would not partake in future conclaves. However, he recently asserted his right to join fellow cardinals in the Sistine Chapel for the conclave scheduled for May 7.
In a statement issued through his legal team, the 76-year-old expressed, “Out of concern for the church I have served with love and fidelity, and to promote the harmony of the conclave, I have chosen to adhere to Pope Francis’ wishes by withdrawing, despite my belief in my innocence.”
Understanding Angelo Becciu
Becciu was once a prominent advisor to Pope Francis before facing allegations of financial improprieties. Born in 1948 in Pattada, Sardinia, he became a priest in 1972 and climbed the ranks within the Vatican. His trajectory included being appointed by Pope Benedict XVI as Substitute for General Affairs in 2011, a significant post within the Vatican’s hierarchy. In 2018, Pope Francis made him a cardinal and tasked him with leading the Congregation for the Causes of Saints.
However, Becciu’s reputation suffered in 2020 when he was compelled to resign from his position amid allegations of financial misconduct, resulting in the loss of his cardinal rights.
The High-Profile Trial
The trial, often referred to as “the trial of the century,” revolved around a substantial investment by the Vatican in the conversion of a former Harrod’s warehouse into luxury apartments. Prosecutors contended that Becciu and several others misappropriated millions of euros through fees and commissions and subsequently extorted 15 million euros from the Vatican in connection with this property.
In December 2023, Becciu was found guilty of embezzlement linked to a 200 million euro investment and a 125,000 euro donation of Vatican funds to a charity led by his brother in Sardinia. Additionally, he was implicated in using Vatican resources to compensate an intelligence analyst, who was later convicted of misusing those funds. Becciu maintains his innocence and is appealing both his conviction and a 5½-year prison sentence.
The Impact of Becciu’s Withdrawal
While Becciu’s exit from the conclave does not alter the Vatican’s count of eligible voters—remaining at 135 cardinal electors—Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni confirmed that two other cardinals have also announced they will not attend due to health issues, reducing the total to 133.
Despite being under the age limit of 80, which typically qualifies him as an elector, Becciu has been classified internally as a “non-elector.” According to the Vatican’s regulations governing conclaves, cardinals who have been “canonically deposed or who have renounced their cardinalate with the approval of the Roman Pontiff” are not permitted to vote. The lack of clarity surrounding Becciu’s resignation leaves questions about his current status.
Letters from Pope Francis
Recent reports from Italian daily Domani indicated that Becciu was presented with two letters from Pope Francis before the latter’s death, advising him not to take part in the conclave. Becciu mentioned the influence of Francis’ directives in his withdrawal statement, indicating that the letters may have significantly affected his decision.
Becciu rose to prominence during the tenure of Pope Benedict XVI and was closely associated with the more conservative factions within the Vatican. Although he initially developed a strong relationship with Francis, his downfall under this pope may have indicated potential voting preferences against some of Francis’ reforms.
After Becciu’s resignation, Francis did visit him and allowed for his continued involvement in Vatican activities while also reforming Vatican law to enable criminal prosecution against him.
Concerns Over Trial Integrity
The fairness of the trial leading to Becciu’s conviction has faced scrutiny. Allegations arose that Pope Francis intervened in favor of the prosecution and that the primary witness against Becciu was influenced by external parties.
Defense attorneys revealed that the pope secretly issued decrees permitting prosecutors to act without typical judicial oversight during the investigation. They raised concerns over potential violations of defendants’ rights, asserting that the pope’s influence compromised the integrity of the legal proceedings.
Although the tribunal dismissed these objections, new evidence suggesting outside interference has emerged in recent weeks, further complicating the narrative surrounding Becciu’s trial. As proceedings continue, Becciu remains free pending his appeal, scheduled to commence in September.
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