Ghana’s Cardinal Peter Turkson, DR Congo’s Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, and Guinea’s Cardinal Robert Sarah have emerged as part of a pool of candidates mooted to replace Pope Francis as the head of the Catholic Church following his death.
The race to replace Pope Francis, whose death was announced earlier this week, is currently in full swing, with a conclave to elect a new pope expected after his burial and mourning rites.
Here are some of the key contenders to replace Pope Francis
Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana)
The 76-year-old Archbishop emeritus of Cape Coast is a highly respected voice in global Catholicism. Cardinal Turkson has served in key Vatican roles and is a strong advocate for social and economic justice. He is a fluent speaker of six languages and serves as Chancellor of the Pontifical Academies of Sciences and Social Sciences.
He has constantly affirmed the church’s traditional positions on the priesthood, marriage between a man and a woman, and homosexuality. However, his views on the latter have loosened and he has argued that laws in many African countries are too harsh. His election would make him the first African pope in modern history, marking a powerful symbol of inclusivity and global representation.
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu (DR Congo)
As the only African on the Pope’s Council of Cardinals, Cardinal Ambongo, the 65 year old Archbishop of Kinshasa is a leading voice on the continent. As head of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar, he opposes same-sex blessings and sees Africa as the Church’s future.
Cardinal Robert Sarah (Guinea)
The 79 year old Cardinal Sarah is the retired head of the Vatican’s liturgy office. He clashed seriously with Pope Francis and in 2020 co-authored a book with the then retired Pope Benedict defending clerical celibacy as Pope Francis was considering allowing married priests in the Amazon to address a priest shortage there.
He has denounced “gender ideology” as a threat to society, and has spoken out against Islamic fundamentalism.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy)
The 70 year old is currently the Vatican’s Secretary of State, Parolin is a seasoned diplomat known for his international negotiations with countries like China and Vietnam. While respected for his administrative prowess, his association with past financial controversies may affect his chances.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines)
The 67 year old former Archbishop of Manila and now head of the Vatican’s missionary efforts is admired for his charisma and deep theological insight. If elected, he would be the first Asian pope, reflecting the Church’s growing shift toward Asia.
Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy)
The 69 year old Archbishop of Bologna, Zuppi is known for championing social justice and peacebuilding. His views closely align with Pope Francis’s pastoral vision, making him a strong candidate for continuity.
Cardinal Péter Erdő (Hungary)
The 72 year old is a prominent theologian and former president of the Council of European Bishops’ Conferences, Erdő is seen as a bridge between traditional and reformist wings of the Church.
