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Feb. 26, 2014 / 9:48 AM

Benedict claims 'complete freedom' in decision to step down

Pope Benedict XVI addresses followers for the last time as head of the Catholic Church from his retirement residence in Castel Gandolfo, Italy, February 28, 2013. UPI/Stefano Spaziani

Pope Benedict XVI addresses followers for the last time as head of the Catholic Church from his retirement residence in Castel Gandolfo, Italy, February 28, 2013. UPI/Stefano Spaziani | License Photo

VATICAN CITY, Feb. 26 (UPI) -- Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI said Wednesday he had freely resigned, dismissing speculation he was forced to step down as head of the Catholic church.

In a letter to Italy's La Stampa newspaper, he said "there is absolutely no doubt regarding the validity of my resignation," the ANSA news agency reported.

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"The only condition for the validity of my resignation is the complete freedom of my decision," he added.

Benedict resigned a year ago Friday.

An article published last week in the daily Libero said Benedict was forced from office by scandals, including financial irregularities and the leaking of confidential Vatican documents to the media.

He also said he continues to wear the white cassock "purely for practical reasons" because at the time of his resignation, no other clothes were available, Vatican Radio reported Wednesday.

Benedict said he wears the cassock in a visibly different manner than Pope Francis, his successor.

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