The pope throughout the history of the catholic church has had many enemies, often times within the ranks at the vatican itself. It is a powerful political position as well as of the catholic church as you know. The two will always be inseperable, just some use that influence more than others. I think the actual power lies with the popes advisors, if they withhold information he is powerless to fight what he is not informed of. There seems to be a break in the communication lines, as to the degree of homosexuality and the deeds that followed, that were given to the pope. Like a husband cheating on a wife..she is usually the last to know.
It may not be his advisers but in Rome outside of his “circle.” who have their own agendas. Like a president, the pope can only do so much to fill places with his friends. John Paul’s long reign allowed him to replace many who were not in sympathy with him and the Holy Father has personal knowledge of the “players.” But he cannot view people the way a president does, which is a mere tool. or deal with his enemies as a prince might.