LISBON - It should take just three days to elect a new pope, Cardinal Jose Policarpo the Patriarch of Lisbon predicted as he arrived in Rome on Tuesday for John Paul II's funeral and to take part in the conclave that will choose his successor.
"The Church is a well-oiled mechanism. It seems uncomplicated to me, the election should be concluded within the first three days," he told reporters on his arrival at Rome airport.
The Portuguese press have speculated that Cardinal Policarpo may himself be elected at the conclave.
"I see myself as an elector. It's already such a difficult task it would be madness to place myself amongst the favourites," he said.
Vatican rules governing the election of a pope are strict. The conclave is conducted behind closed doors and cannot start until at least two weeks after the pope's death -- in this case from April 17 -- but no later than 20 days.
Cardinals must not make any form of deal that would sway their decision on the grounds that the Holy Spirit informs their choice. Nor are they allowed to vote for themselves.
Altogether, 117 cardinals are eligible to vote.
04/05/2005 17:20 GMT