Chairperson, Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Members of Parliament, Cope stands in support of the appointment of Thulisile Nomkhosi Madonsela in the position of Public Protector. The Public Protector is one of six Chapter 9 state institutions supporting constitutional democracy.
It is therefore our view that the appointment of the Public Protector be taken very seriously and more especially by the members of Cope because we are the only party that stands here to defend democracy and the Constitution. [Laughter.]
The person who is to be appointed Public Protector must be a person of very good credentials, with integrity and high moral values. This person must investigate any conduct in state affairs or in the public administration that is in section 182(1)(a) of the Constitution, therefore, independence, accessibility to all persons and honesty are the critical ingredients. This ad hoc committee, under the capable leadership of Adv Masutha, performed this task in a manner which was credible, transparent and open. All candidates were interviewed in a cordial and friendly atmosphere. Even the discussions on deciding on the candidates were frank and honest, though I must say there was not much discussion because all parties agreed on one name. Even those who did not succeed, were very good candidates. In fact, as a South African, I felt proud to know that we have such high-calibre people in our country. It is just that we wanted one person.
I wish to thank everyone we worked with and I can say with confidence, Comrade Chairperson, that this appointment is an appointment of Parliament not of the ruling party. Thank you. [Time expired.] [Applause.]