Italian Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu, who was convicted of fraud and embezzlement, has asserted that he should be allowed to take part in the upcoming conclave to elect a new Pope, despite being designated a “non-elector.”

Becciu, once a prominent figure in the Vatican, was asked by Pope Francis in 2020 to step down from his roles and privileges following a financial scandal. He was later convicted of financial crimes in 2023 but has since appealed the verdict.

Despite his current status, the cardinal insists he should still be allowed to help choose the next Pope.