As speculation increases regarding the successor to Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday, April 21, Ghana’s own Cardinal Peter Appiah Turkson is emerging as a leading candidate to head the Catholic Church. This development could signify a historic moment for both the Vatican and Africa. The next pope, who will be the 267th leader of the global Catholic Church, will influence the direction of over 1.5 billion Catholics worldwide, including a significant and growing population in Ghana.
This decision carries considerable weight, especially as the Church addresses pressing issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, the role of women, climate change, and its presence in the developing world. Although the conclave—the secretive election process among Cardinals—is notoriously unpredictable, many are focusing on Cardinal Turkson, who would be the first Black pope if elected.
Who is Cardinal Peter Appiah Turkson?
Cardinal Turkson, born in Western Ghana and a former Archbishop of Cape Coast, is 76 years old and has been a respected voice within the Vatican for many years. He has held various high-profile positions under Pope Francis, including serving as the pope’s peace envoy to South Sudan. Cardinal Turkson is often viewed as a bridge between the conservative and progressive factions within the Church.
He occupies a nuanced position on some of the Church’s most divisive issues. Regarding gay rights, he has pointed out that while many African countries enforce overly harsh laws, it is important to respect the cultural and traditional views of African societies. He has stated, “We are not in favor of criminalization,” but also emphasized that African perspectives should not be dismissed completely.
Though he was a favourite during the 2013 conclave that elected Pope Francis, his candidacy was marred by controversy when he suggested that homosexuality contributed to the clerical sex abuse scandals. At the time, he claimed that such abuses would not occur in African churches due to strong cultural taboos against same-sex relations. Still, his firm roots in Ghana, deep theological knowledge, and international diplomacy experience make him a strong candidate in a Church increasingly focused on the Global South.
A Global Church Shifting Away from Europe
For centuries, the Papacy has been dominated by Europeans. But with Catholic populations in decline across much of Europe and growing rapidly in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, many believe it’s time for a pope who reflects the Church’s changing face.
A potential African or Asian pope — such as Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines — would be celebrated as a break from tradition and a symbol of inclusivity. But for many Africans, a Turkson papacy would be a source of immense pride and a recognition of the continent’s increasing importance to global Christianity.
The Road Ahead
Other frontrunners include Italy’s Cardinal Pietro Parolin, seen as a moderate continuity candidate, and Hungary’s Cardinal Peter Erdo, a staunch conservative. The conclave will also consider figures like Malta’s Cardinal Mario Grech and Portugal’s Cardinal Jose Tolentino, each bringing different theological and diplomatic perspectives.
But for Ghanaians — and indeed many across Africa — Cardinal Turkson represents hope for a Church that truly reflects its diverse followers.
As Catholics around the world await the famous white smoke that signals the election of a new pope, Ghana remains prayerful and watchful.
Should Cardinal Turkson be chosen, it would be a defining moment not just for the Vatican, but for Ghana’s place in the history of the Catholic Church.
By: Kobina Welsing
