Although the DA abstained and did not endorse Busisiwe Mkhwebane as the next public protector - claiming that she had worked as a spy for a state security agency - we can take some hope from the endorsement of her nomination by most of the political parties.The DA's allegations are serious and should not be swept under the carpet, but we have a duty to elect the best candidate to the post.The process followed to nominate Mkhwebane was open and the public was taken on board at every step. We were even given the opportunity to follow the grilling of candidates live on television.It is this process that we must use to choose all those who hold senior positions in state institutions.Following an open process gives confidence to the public and sends a message to all that South Africa is indeed on firm ground.Various organisations, including public watchdog Corruption Watch, played a key role in sensitising society about the role of the public protector. That is why we have hope that Mkhwebane will take the standing of the public protector to an even higher level.She should make her own path and not be forced to stand in the shadow of Thuli Madonsela - who raised the bar enormously.South Africa today needs Mkhwebane's skills to add to the vigour of the public protector in defending the rights of all citizens, including those in rural areas.It would be beneficial if our political leaders looked at the open selection process not as an infringement on their prerogatives but as a tool that gives our political system additional credence.We hope South Africans will support the new public protector and not try to influence her or bombard her office with non-cases.We endorse Mkhwebane's nomination and hope that she will deliver on her mandate without fear or favour...