Nearly 50 percent of the cardinal electors now come from the developing world.

It all depends on the 115 cardinal electors and, of course, the Holy Spirit.

Later today in Rome, cardinal electors, following prayer and intense politicking, will begin to choose the new pope.

While previous popes have enlarged the number of cardinal electors from the developing world, Pope Benedict has named many Europeans since his election.

Francis has now appointed more than half of the 128 cardinal electors, increasing the possibility that the next pope will continue his progressive policies.

The Vatican has accused the Italian media of spreading "false and damaging" reports, condemning some as deplorable attempts to influence the cardinal electors.

One of the first questions facing these "princes of the Church" is when the 115 cardinal electors should enter the Sistine Chapel for the voting.

For the past 624 years, since 1389, all 63 of the popes who have been elected have come from the ranks of the cardinal electors.

Cardinal Romero, 67, is one of four new cardinal electors who are steeped in experience with Islam.

Even including yesterday's appointments, the College of Cardinal Electors (those under 80) is still almost 50 per cent European.