At 67 years old, he meets the requirements to participate in the election of a new Pope. He was appointed Cardinal by Pope Francis on November 28, 2020, becoming the first Cardinal in the history of the Catholic Church in Rwanda.

The election of a Pope is conducted by the College of Cardinals, where only those under the age of 80 are eligible to vote. Since Cardinal Kambanda is relatively young compared to other cardinals, this could increase his chances in the event of a new papal election.

On February 14, 2025, Pope Francis, aged 88, was admitted to Agostino Gemelli Hospital in Rome after suffering from bronchitis. Three days later, on February 17, the Vatican announced that his health had continued to deteriorate, and he was diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs. As a result, his medication was changed, and he was advised to remain in the hospital.

Pope Francis has a long history of respiratory health issues. At the age of 21, he suffered from a lung infection, which led to the removal of part of his right lung. In 2023, he was again hospitalized due to pneumonia but managed to recover and return to his duties. However, this time, his condition has worsened significantly, as confirmed by the Vatican.

As the Pope’s health continues to decline, preparations for his funeral have reportedly begun, following the traditions observed for other Popes. Pope Francis himself has acknowledged that his time may be near and has requested arrangements for prayers and the location of his burial.

The rules governing the election of a new Pope state that the College of Cardinals must convene between 15 and 20 days after the Pope’s passing to elect his successor. Cardinals over the age of 80 are not allowed to vote, a rule established by Pope Paul VI in 1970 and later reaffirmed by Pope John Paul II in 1996.

The Pope is elected through a secret ballot, and a candidate must receive at least two-thirds of the votes to be confirmed.

Does Cardinal Kambanda have a chance of being elected?
Cardinal Antoine Kambanda is still relatively young among the cardinals, and his dedication to expanding the Catholic Church in Africa could enhance his chances. While there is no official information indicating that he is among the top candidates, his experience in church leadership places him in the category of those who could be considered.

However, the election of a Pope depends on the collective decision of the voting cardinals, influenced by the direction they wish to take the Church. As the Catholic Church continues to strengthen its presence in Africa, it is possible that a candidate from the continent, such as Cardinal Kambanda, could be given serious consideration.

Cardinal Antoine Kambanda is one of the few African cardinals who could potentially be considered for the position of the next Pope

Pope Francis himself has acknowledged that his time may be near and has requested arrangements for prayers and the location of his burial