Becciu rose to prominence and power under conservative Pope Benedict XVI and is very much affiliated with the conservative Vatican old guard. While he initially became a close adviser to Pope Francis, Becciu’s subsequent downfall at the hands of Francis might suggest he would have voted for someone keen to undo some of Francis’ reforms.

Cardinals have decided the conclave to elect a successor to Pope Francis will begin May 7. The conclave is a closed-door meeting of the cardinal electors to choose the new pope in the Sistine Chapel.

The conclave — where cardinals worldwide converge in Vatican City to elect a new pontiff, following Pope Francis' death — will begin May 7, per the Vatican