The passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88 on Easter Monday has plunged the global Catholic community into mourning. As the Vatican prepares for his funeral, attention is shifting toward who will succeed him. Among the names being discussed are two prominent African cardinals: Peter Turkson of Ghana and Robert Sarah of Guinea. **Cardinal Peter Turkson: Ghana’s Progressive Contender** At 76, Cardinal Peter Turkson is widely seen as a strong candidate for the papacy. Born in Ghana, Turkson was named Archbishop of Cape Coast in 1992 by Pope John Paul II and made cardinal in 2003—the first from his country. Over the years, he has become a key voice in the Church on social justice, human rights, and environmental stewardship. Known for his progressive outlook, Turkson has supported bold positions on climate change and social inequality. He has also expressed openness toward more inclusive discussions on issues like homosexuality, drawing criticism from conservative factions but gaining respect as a trusted advisor to Pope Francis. Appointed by Francis in 2009 to head the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, Turkson later became the first prefect of the Dicastery for the Promotion of Integral Human Development in 2017. His leadership reflects a vision of a Church that is both compassionate and committed to justice. If elected, he would become the first Black African pope in history. **Cardinal Robert Sarah: Guinea’s Conservative Voice** In contrast, 79-year-old Cardinal Robert Sarah represents a more traditionalist wing of the Church. A native of Guinea, Sarah served as Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments from 2014 to 2021. During his tenure, he championed the preservation of traditional liturgy and resisted modern reforms. Sarah is a staunch opponent of same-sex marriage, abortion, and gender ideology, defending what he sees as the foundational principles of the Church. He has also spoken out against Islamic extremism, calling it a major global threat. In 2016, Sarah made headlines for opposing Pope Francis' liturgical reforms, advocating for priests to celebrate Mass facing the altar—a pre-Vatican II practice. His firm stance has garnered both support and controversy, making him a leading voice for those who want a return to traditional Catholic values. Sarah’s uncompromising conservatism could appeal to those within the Church seeking clarity and continuity in doctrine, setting up a possible ideological contrast with more reform-minded candidates like Turkson.