Cardinal Juan Luis Cipriani reappears in the Vatican despite Pope Francis | Video | PRESENT

The cardinal Juan Luis Ciprianione of the most controversial figures of the Peruvian clergy, reappeared on Wednesday in the Vatican, in the midst of the wake of the papa Franciscodeceased last Monday, April 21 at 88. His presence surprised, because he still weighs on him a sanction imposed by the Pontiff himself for a complaint of sexual abuse.

The scene was captured by the Vatican News cameras. Cipriani, 80, was accompanied by an assistant to the Basilica of San Pedro shortly after noon (Peruvian time). There he stopped in front of Pope Francis’s coffin and prayed silently for almost 15 minutes, before retiring without giving statements.

This public appearance did not go unnoticed. In January, the Vatican confirmed that Cipriani was sanctioned with restrictions on its public activities, place of residence and use of ecclesiastical badges. The measure was signed by Pope Francis and accepted by the cardinal.

Despite the sanction, Cipriani plans to participate in the initial meetings prior to the conclave that will choose the new leader of the Catholic Church. However, he will not be able to vote in the process because he exceeded 80 years, age established for a vote.

In conversation with RPP News, the Secretary General of the Peruvian Episcopal Conference, Father Guillermo Inca, explained that these congregations are spaces for reflection, where all cardinals can contribute ideas about the profile that the next pontiff should have.

“Like all cardinals, he has the possibility of reaching the first congregations. He can contribute, look pointed out.

Juan Luis Cipriani was Archbishop of Lima for almost two decades and was always associated with a conservative line within the Church. However, his figure was overshadowed by various complaints, including one for concealment and sexual abuse, which finally motivated the penalty of the Vatican.

Today, without being able to vote or be chosen, its role in the next conclave would be limited, although not exempt from influence from a more discreet position.

Peru currently has three living cardinals. Of these, only Carlos Castillo, Archbishop of Lima and 75, may participate with the right to vote in the election of Francisco’s successor.

The body of Pope Francis will remain in the Basilica of San Pedro until this Friday, allowing faithful from all over the world to pay tribute. Its funeral is scheduled for this Saturday at 10:00 am (local time), in a ceremony that will bring together religious and political leaders from various countries.

Francisco, the first Latin American Pope, died from a stroke less than 24 hours after his blessing “Urbi et Orbi”. Its legacy, marked by a reformist impulse and a church close to the most disadvantaged, will be evaluated as one of the most transcendent in the modern history of the Vatican.