The election of a new pope remains unresolved as cardinals failed to reach a consensus after three rounds of voting. One hundred thirty-three cardinals gathered once again in the Sistine Chapel on Thursday to cast their ballots, hoping to choose a successor to Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21.
The third ballot, like the previous ones, ended in disappointment as black smoke – or fumata nera – rose from the chapel’s chimney, signaling that no candidate had secured the necessary two-thirds majority required to become the new pope. This outcome comes after two earlier rounds of voting also failed to result in a clear decision.
The election process for a new pope follows a strict procedure. To be chosen, a candidate must win the support of at least two-thirds of the voting cardinals. If successful, the new pope will be announced with the appearance of white smoke – fumata bianca – from the chimney, followed by the ringing of the bells at St. Peter’s Basilica.
With each round of voting, the cardinals continue their search for the right candidate to lead the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics. The election is being closely watched, as the selection of a new pope is one of the most important events in the Catholic Church, affecting both its future direction and its global influence.
As the cardinals head into the next round of voting, anticipation remains high, and many around the world are waiting to see if they can soon agree on the next leader of the Church.
