Could Cardinal Peter Turkson Be the Next Pope? Why the Ghanaian Cardinal Is a Top Contender

With Pope Francis’ passing, the Catholic Church faces a historic decision: Who will be the next pope? Among the top contenders is Cardinal Peter Turkson, the Ghanaian cardinal who nearly became pope in 2013.

In this analysis, we explore:
✅ Why Turkson is a leading papal candidate
✅ The case for the first African pope in modern history
✅ Vatican insiders’ views on his chances
✅ Potential challenges he faces

1. Who Is Cardinal Peter Turkson?

Quick Facts:

• Nationality: Ghanaian
• Age: 76 – within papal age range
• Current Role: Chancellor of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences
• Key Strengths: Multilingual, reformist, close ally of Pope Francis

Career Highlights:

✔ First Ghanaian cardinal (appointed in 2003)
✔ Led Vatican’s COVID-19 response (2020–2021)
✔ Key advisor on climate change (Laudato Si’)
✔ Former head of the Dicastery for Human Development

2. Why Turkson Could Be the Next Pope

A. The Push for an African Pope

• Africa is the fastest-growing Catholic region (236 million faithful).
• No African pope in 1,500+ years – Turkson would make history.
• Symbol of diversity for a globalizing Church.

B. Progressive Yet Balanced Theology

• Social Justice Focus: Advocate for climate action, poverty reduction.
• Moderate on Doctrine: Supports Francis’ reforms but avoids radical liberalism.

C. Vatican Insider Support

• Respected by both conservative and liberal cardinals.
• Worked closely with Pope Francis, increasing his influence.

D. Age & Health Advantage

• At 76, he’s the same age as Francis was at election (76).
• No major health issues reported.

3. Challenges Turkson Faces

A. European Resistance

• Some traditionalist cardinals may oppose a non-European pope.
• Historical precedent: Most popes have been Italian or European.

B. Past Controversies

• 2019 clergy abuse comments (later clarified).
• Perception as “too progressive” by conservative factions.

C. Strong Competition

Other top contenders:

• Cardinal Luis Tagle (Philippines) – Progressive, charismatic.
• Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy) – Vatican Secretary of State.
• Cardinal Christoph Schönborn (Austria) – Moderate reformer.

4. What Vatican Experts Are Saying

a.) Fr. Thomas Reese (Jesuit analyst):
“Turkson checks all boxes: African, experienced, and a bridge-builder.”

b.) Vatican journalist Marco Tosatti:
“If the Church wants a pastoral, global leader, Turkson is the man.”

c.) African Catholic Bishops’ Conference:
“The time for an African pope has come.”

5. Historical Context: Could an African Pope Really Win?

• Last African pope: Pope Gelasius I (492–496 AD).
• Modern precedent: Pope Francis (first Latin American pope in 2013).
• Growing African influence: 27% of Catholics now live in Africa.

6. Final Verdict: Turkson’s Chances in 2025

Factor	Turkson’s Advantage
Geographical	Strong African support
Theological	Balanced reformist
Political	Vatican insider
Age/Health	Fit for long pontificate

Prediction: 40% chance – Among the top 3 candidates.

Conclusion: A Papal Election for the Ages

If elected, Cardinal Turkson would:
✔ Unite the Global South and Europe
✔ Address climate change & poverty more aggressively
✔ Modernize the Vatican’s approach to Africa