The Metropolitan Archbishop of Cape Coast, Most Rev. Charles Gabriel Palmer-Buckle, has voiced strong support for Ghanaian Cardinal Peter Appiah Turkson as a potential successor to Pope Francis.
Speaking to 3news.com, Archbishop Palmer-Buckle highlighted Cardinal Turkson’s qualifications, noting that he possesses both the appropriate age and extensive experience needed to lead the Catholic Church. Cardinal Turkson currently serves as the Chancellor of the Pontifical Academies of Sciences and Social Sciences at the Vatican.
“Our Cardinal is of the right age and has ample experience. If his fellow Cardinals see him as the right person, they’ll support him,” Palmer-Buckle said. “We in Ghana will back him with our prayers. It would be a tremendous honor for Ghana if he were elected Pope.”
The former Archbishop of Accra emphasized, however, that the final decision rests with divine guidance. “Let’s leave it to the Holy Spirit. When Pope Benedict passed away, 1.3 billion Catholics prayed across the world. We will do the same now and trust that God will choose the next Pope.”
Archbishop Palmer-Buckle’s remarks come in the wake of Pope Francis’ passing on Monday, April 21, 2025.
About Pope Francis’ Passing:
Global media confirmed the death of the 88-year-old Pontiff early Monday. The Vatican Camerlengo, responsible for officially verifying a Pope’s death, released a statement confirming his passing.
“At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was devoted to serving the Lord and the Church,” said Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican Camerlengo, as reported by Sources.
Cardinal Turkson, a respected theologian and seasoned Vatican diplomat, now stands among the prominent names being discussed as potential successors in the upcoming Papal Conclave.
