The Vatican is at the center of global attention as Catholic cardinals gather to elect the next pope, but the first round of voting has ended without a decision, signaled by black smoke from the Sistine Chapel. The process is shrouded in tradition and secrecy, with cardinals from around the world participating. Controversy has arisen after an African cardinal claimed he was not invited to vote, though the Vatican attributes his absence to health issues. The world awaits further votes and the iconic white smoke that will announce the new leader of the Catholic Church. The conclave continues amid speculation and high anticipation.
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Papal conclave 2025 live updates: Black smoke comes from Sistine Chapel chimney early Thursday
Latest news and live updates as the election process for the next pope continues. The cardinals met for their first conclave vote last night.
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Live updates: No pope chosen as black smoke billows from Sistine Chapel
Catholic cardinals return to the Vatican to elect Pope Francis' successor. White and black smoke will signal if a new pope has been chosen or not.
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Conclave mystery as African cardinal claims he 'hasn't been invited' to join voting for new Pope - while Vatican insists his non-attendance is due to 'poor health'
Cardinal John Njue, 79, is eligible to join the other 133 cardinals, from 70 countries, who are gathering for the start of the process which begins this afternoon in the Sistine Chapel.
