Vatican deploys military jammers to secure papal conclave
The Vatican has announced that military jammers will block electronic communication around the Sistine Chapel during the conclave. This measure is intended to ensure complete secrecy in the election of the new pope.
What do you need to know?
- The conclave will begin on Wednesday in the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican is introducing special security measures to ensure the secrecy of the papal election process.
- Military jammers will be employed to disable recording and listening devices around the Sistine Chapel.
- Technical checks carried out by experts will ensure that no recording equipment is installed in the Chapel.
The Vatican reported that the introduction of military jammers is designed to block any electronic communication between the Sistine Chapel and the outside world.
In a section of the Apostolic Constitution "Universi Dominici Gregis" concerning the conduct of the conclave and the absolute requirement to maintain its secrecy, John Paul II wrote: "In order for the cardinal electors to protect themselves from the indiscretion of others and from potential secretive attempts to undermine the independence of their judgement or freedom of decision, I absolutely forbid that any kind of technical devices for recording, reproducing, and transmitting voice, image, or text be brought into the locations where the election proceedings take place or used if they are already present."
In addition to the jammers, the Vatican has ordered special technical inspections in the Sistine Chapel. Experts are tasked with ensuring that no recording equipment has been installed there.
When will the new pope be elected?
On Wednesday, 7th May at 10:00 AM local time, a "pro eligendo Pontifice" Mass will be held for the intention of choosing the pope. On the same day at 16:30, the cardinals will enter the Sistine Chapel, where they will take an oath and hold the first vote. On 5th May, at 17:00, the second general congregation is scheduled.
The Press Office of the Holy See has provided the members of the College of Cardinals with documentation containing profiles and photos of all elector cardinals, facilitating preparations for the assembly. This is another step in ensuring the smooth progress of the conclave, which will commence in the coming days.
