This marks the first time in history that a Rwandan will be among the cardinal-electors in a papal conclave—and Cardinal Kambanda himself is also eligible to be elected pope.

On November 28, 2020, Pope Francis elevated Antoine Kambanda to the rank of cardinal, making him the first Rwandan in history to attain that position.

Following Pope Francis’ death, a conclave of selected cardinals will convene to elect a new pope. The gathering is expected to take place between May 6 and 11, 2025, in the Sistine Chapel in Rome, as prescribed by Church law.

Among the more than 120 cardinals eligible to vote is Cardinal Antoine Kambanda. Notably, only cardinals under the age of 80 may take part in the election, Cardinal Kambanda, at age 67, meets this requirement.

Although rare, there is no law preventing any cardinal from being elected pope. This means that Cardinal Antoine Kambanda is not only a voter—but also a viable candidate for the papacy.

Once a new pope has been elected and accepts the role, the ballots are ceremonially burned with chemicals that produce white smoke. The senior cardinal then steps out and announces to the public: "Habemus Papam", which means "We have a Pope."

Cardinal Antoine Kambanda is set to participate in the election of a new pope to succeed Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025.