Black smoke emerges as no pope elected after 3rd ballot

Local

AFTER the third ballot, black smoke rose from the chimney over the Sistine Chapel at 11:50 on Thursday afternoon (Vatican time).

The black smoke indicated no new pope was elected after the second ballot of the first full day of the conclave - and the third ballot overall, a report by Vatican News said.

The traditional symbol of black smoke billowing indicates that no candidate received the two-thirds majority required to be elected the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church.

According to a report by Agence France-Press, 133 cardinal-electors from around the world gathered in the Vatican following the April 21 death of Pope Francis.

The cardinals began the secretive process with a solemn procession into the Sistine Chapel, followed by the administration of an oath of secrecy before casting their initial votes. The mood among pilgrims and observers in St. Peter’s Square remained reverent yet watchful as the smoke confirmed the lack of a decision.

The New York Post reported that the conclave could last several days, with up to four rounds of voting conducted daily until a consensus is reached. The process, steeped in tradition and governed by strict rules, is designed to ensure that the next pope is chosen free from external influence.

While speculation continues about possible frontrunners, including cardinals from Africa, Latin America, and Europe, no names have been officially confirmed by the Vatican. Church officials have emphasized the need for prayer, unity, and patience during the selection of the 267th pontiff.

The cardinals will reconvene Wednesday morning (local time) for the next rounds of voting. If a new pope is elected, white smoke will rise from the chimney, signaling to the world that a successor to Pope Francis has been chosen.(John Clyron Matillano CTU-TC Intern)