Pope Francis has no plans to resign despite mounting speculation following his recent health complications, a close friend and biographer has confirmed.
Argentine journalist Elisabetta Pique, a long-time friend of the 88-year-old Pontiff, dismissed rumors that he was considering stepping down, even as discussions reportedly take place among cardinals regarding a possible successor.
The speculation intensified after the Vatican announced that Francis had suffered two episodes of respiratory failure and required additional medical intervention.
On Monday, the Vatican disclosed that Pope Francis had been placed back on non-invasive mechanical ventilation due to acute respiratory insufficiency caused by a buildup of mucus in his airways.
“Today, the Holy Father suffered two episodes of acute respiratory insufficiency, caused by a significant accumulation of endobronchial mucus and consequent bronchospasm,” the Vatican’s statement read.
Doctors performed two bronchoscopies to remove the mucus, ensuring that the Pope remained stable.
Despite the setback, the Vatican assured the public that Francis remained “alert, oriented, and cooperative” throughout the procedures. However, officials noted that his “prognosis remains guarded.”
As a precaution, Cardinal Angelo De Donatis, a former vicar of Rome, has been designated to preside over the Ash Wednesday service this week, marking the beginning of Lent.
The Pope’s absence from this significant event has further fueled speculation about his ability to continue leading the Catholic Church.
Pope Francis was initially admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 with bronchitis, which later developed into pneumonia affecting both lungs. His health struggles have raised concerns worldwide, given his advanced age and previous medical conditions.
Despite the health challenges, Vatican insiders and close associates insist that Francis remains committed to his duties. His biographer, Pique, made it clear that “the Pope has no intention of resigning,” countering speculation that his deteriorating health might prompt a historic abdication similar to that of his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI.
While Vatican officials have not provided a timeline for his full recovery, they continue to monitor his condition closely.