Commentators across globe begin speculation about legacy new pope set to build

JOHANNESBURG - Commentators across the globe have started to speculate about the legacy the newly elected Catholic Pope is set to build as the religious community and global leaders welcome Cardinal Robert Prevost to his new role.

In the first vote of the afternoon on the second day of the conclave on Thursday, white smoke billowed out of the Vatican chimney to thunderous applause, signalling that a majority of cardinal electors had reached a decision.

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Prevost, who chose the name Leo the 14th, was the first United States (US) pontiff in history.

"Peace be with you all,” Prevost said in his first words.

Thousands gathered in St Peter's Square for the first sighting of the 69-year-old, who assumes the position from Pope Francis, who succumbed to illness more than two weeks ago.

As the 267th pope, he now has tough shoes to fill after Pope Francis was hailed as a staunch advocate of peace, defender of the poor and marginalised, and a voice of reason.

President Cyril Ramaphosa said Pope Leo’s early emphasis on peace is a call that resonates with most of humanity and is one that honours the legacy of the late Pope Francis.

Ramaphosa said he hopes the white smoke from the Vatican chimney is a signal that the Church will lead efforts to overcome dark plumes of military bombardments affecting various regions of the world today.

“South Africa wishes Pope Leo XIV a blessed and transformative papacy that will strengthen faith, unity and social solidarity in the world.”