By Alexander Luyima | Religious Scholar

The election of a new pope is meant to be a sacred, solemn process—a moment when the College of Cardinals seeks divine guidance to select the next leader of the 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide. But this time, the conclave is mired in controversy, as Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Vecchio, a man convicted of financial crimes, demands the right to vote—and even be voted for—despite his fall from grace.

The Unprecedented Scandal

Vecchio was once among the Vatican’s most powerful figures. But in 2020, Pope Francis stripped him of his cardinal privileges following an internal investigation. Then, in 2023, the Vatican’s criminal court delivered a historic blow: Vecchio was found guilty of embezzlement and fraud, and sentenced to five and a half years in prison—making him the first cardinal ever convicted by the Holy See’s own tribunal.

Yet, thanks to a pending appeal, Vecchio remains free, residing in a Vatican apartment while his legal battle drags on. Now, with the papal conclave approaching, he insists that an invitation to a 2022 meeting of cardinals somehow restored his full rights, including the ability to vote for the next pope.

Canon Law vs. Moral Authority

The Church’s legal experts are divided:

Some argue that unless explicitly reinstated, Vecchio’s 2020 removal by Pope Francis still stands.

Others claim that participation in official gatherings implies a tacit restoration of privileges.

But beyond the legal technicalities lies a deeper question: Should a convicted criminal—one found guilty by the Vatican’s own court—help elect the next Vicar of Christ?

“This isn’t just about rules; it’s about credibility,” says Dr. Elena Rossi, a canon law specialist. “The Church has spent years trying to rebuild trust after scandals. Allowing a felon in the conclave would send a disastrous message.”

A Wider Pattern of Scandal

Vecchio isn’t the only controversial figure lingering in the Vatican’s halls.

Two other cardinals, previously found guilty of sexual abuse, are expected to attend pre-conclave discussions—though they cannot vote due to age restrictions.

Critics argue that their mere presence undermines the moral weight of the process.

“The optics are terrible,” notes Father Thomas Brennan, a reform advocate. “If the Church truly wants to cleanse itself, it must start by keeping those who betrayed its trust far from the seat of power.”

What Happens Next?

The Vatican has remained silent so far, but pressure is mounting.

1. Will Pope Francis issue a definitive ruling?

2. Will the College of Cardinals reject Vecchio’s claim?

3. Or will this set a dangerous precedent for future conclaves?

One thing is clear: The world is watching—and so are the faithful.

Join the Debate
Should convicted clergy have any role in selecting the next pope? Share your thoughts below with #VaticanConclave #ChurchAccountability #CatholicReform.

Follow for further analysis as this pivotal moment in Church history unfolds.