The Vatican conclave remains without resolution as black smoke once again emerged from the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel, signaling that the 133 cardinal electors have not yet agreed on a new pope.
Crowds of faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square, awaiting the long-anticipated announcement. However, after multiple rounds of voting, the cardinals are still deadlocked, unable to reach the required two-thirds majority needed to elect a new leader of the Catholic Church.
Rooted in centuries-old tradition, the papal election process is conducted under strict secrecy. The cardinal electors are completely cut off from external contact and cast up to four ballots each day—two in the morning and two in the afternoon—until a final decision is reached.
The eyes of the world remain fixed on the Vatican, hoping to witness white smoke rise above the chapel and hear the historic declaration, “Habemus Papam”—Latin for “We have a Pope.”
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