The Italian cardinal at the center of what many call the Vatican's "trial of the century" has announced his withdrawal from participating in the upcoming conclave to elect a new pope, citing "the good of the church." This ends days of drama that had overshadowed the proceedings following Pope Francis' death.
Cardinal Angelo Becciu's status dominated discussions as questions swirled about whether he would participate in the May seventh conclave to elect Francis' successor. After his downfall in 2020, Becciu had initially said he would not participate in any future conclave. However, in recent days, he asserted his right to enter the Sistine Chapel alongside other cardinals.

On Tuesday, the seventy-six-year-old Italian issued a statement through his lawyers saying: "Having at heart the good of the church, which I have served and will continue to serve with fidelity and love, as well as to contribute to the communion and serenity of the conclave, I have decided to obey as I have always done the will of Pope Francis not to enter the conclave while remaining convinced of my innocence."