In a formal declaration released by the Holy See Press Office on Wednesday, the College of Cardinals confirmed that all 133 Cardinal electors attending the upcoming conclave possess full voting rights in the selection of the next Pope.

The statement, issued during the General Congregation of Cardinals, clarifies that despite the 120-elector limit outlined in paragraph 33 of Universi Dominici Gregis—the apostolic constitution regulating papal elections—the precedent set by the late Pope Francis prevails. By appointing more than 120 Cardinals under the age of 80, Pope Francis effectively lifted the cap, invoking paragraph 36 of the same constitution.

As a result, the Cardinals affirmed: “Those exceeding the established threshold have, from the moment of their creation and public announcement, rightfully acquired the faculty to elect the Roman Pontiff.”

The declaration also acknowledged and commended the voluntary withdrawal of Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu from the conclave scheduled to begin on May 7. The Cardinals expressed their appreciation for his choice, noting it was made “with the good of the Church in mind and to support unity and tranquility during the conclave.”

They concluded by expressing hope that the appropriate legal authorities will ultimately provide clarity on the corruption allegations surrounding Cardinal Becciu.