Before the start of the Holy Synod session, Archbishop Zenon Iarajuli told journalists that he had personally discussed this issue with His Holiness Ilia II, who expressed deep concern about the future after his passing.

“We had a conversation, and the Patriarch said that he was very worried about what would happen after him. This troubled him greatly. He knew my character - that I would say this publicly. One thing must be said: neither the government nor anyone else should interfere in the election of the next Patriarch. This was his wish. And it will be so,” Bishop Zenon stated.

He also spoke about Ilia II’s legacy, describing him as a truly epochal figure with rare inner culture, refinement, and deep respect for every human being. According to Zenon, the Patriarch was never radical and was often regarded as a modern thinker, even in his earlier years.

“He was truly a man of an era. I knew him very well - only a few of us did. Not everyone had the opportunity to truly know him. Time also matters - when and under what circumstances you spend time with a person. May God grant him eternal light,” he said.

Zenon shared a personal reflection as well, noting that the Patriarch passed away on his birthday, which made the loss especially painful for him. He recalled that Ilia II treated him like a son and had expressed trust in him from a young age.

Regarding the election of a new Patriarch, Bishop Zenon stressed that it must be conducted without any external interference.

“I can say with certainty that it is essential for the election to take place without any outside involvement. Given our geopolitical location, some actors may wish to interfere, but I am confident such mistakes will not be allowed. The Patriarch must be elected solely by the bishops, based entirely on their own decision,” he said.

He added that Ilia II had told him several years ago that no one should interfere in the process, reaffirming that this was the Patriarch’s clear and deliberate wish.

“When the issue of the locum tenens arose - I don’t remember which year exactly - I recalled yesterday an episode when we had a conversation, and he said: ‘I am very worried about what will happen after me. This concerns me greatly.’ The Patriarch knew my character and that I would speak about this. He said one thing that must be said: neither the government nor anyone else should interfere in this matter. This is my wish. And it will be so!” – stated Bishop Zenon.