Cardinals set to elect new Pope May 7

Following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, preparations are underway for the conclave to elect the next pope, with about 133-135 cardinals gathering in the Sistine Chapel starting May 7. The process, conducted in secrecy, involves multiple rounds of voting each day until a two-thirds majority is reached, with black smoke indicating no decision and white smoke signaling a new pope has been chosen. While frontrunners such as Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle are mentioned, the outcome remains unpredictable, as alliances can shift and unexpected candidates may emerge during the proceedings. The conclave is expected to last no more than three days, in line with recent precedent, as the Church seeks to project unity and avoid prolonging the process. Vatican legislation requires the conclave to convene within 20 days of a pope's death, and only cardinals under 80 are eligible to vote. The event is seen as both historic and significant for the global Catholic community, with observers noting the unpredictability and solemnity of the selection process.