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Cardinal Angelo Becciu, central to the Vatican's recent trial, withdrew from the upcoming papal conclave. Despite initially claiming his right to participate, he cited the 'good of the church' and obedience to Pope Francis's wishes as reasons for his decision. Becciu, convicted on financial charges in 2023, maintains his innocence and is appealing his sentence. His withdrawal, though technically eligible, doesn't alter the conclave's official elector count, which stands at 133 after two cardinals withdrew due to health issues.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.