Italian Cardinal Becciu Withdraws from Conclave Amid €200 Million Scandal

vatican city - Cardinal Angelo Becciu announces he will not participate in the conclave, following a financial scandal involving €200 million in London investments. Becciu, previously convicted of embezzlement, cites Pope Francis' wish.

Italian Cardinal Becciu Withdraws from Conclave Amid €200 Million Scandal

Cardinal Angelo Becciu has decided not to join the conclave, despite maintaining his innocence, in light of a financial scandal tied to €200 million real estate investments in London.

Financial Misconduct and Conviction

Becciu, a cardinal from Sardinia, faced a scandal related to the purchase of real estate worth €200 million, leading to his dismissal by Pope Francis in September 2020.

In 2023, Becciu received a unique five-year, six-month prison sentence by the Vatican court for embezzlement and fraud, becoming the first cardinal convicted by the Holy See's court.

Controversy Over Conclave Participation

Despite maintaining his innocence, Becciu expressed his desire to participate in the conclave, claiming his voting rights as a cardinal. However, Cardinal Pietro Parolin reportedly presented letters from Pope Francis objecting to Becciu's involvement, prompting Becciu's withdrawal.

Parolin, a key figure in the Vatican and a frontrunner for the papacy, played a significant role in dissuading Becciu's participation in the conclave.