MLA Leela Aheer announced Wednesday she will not be running in the 2023 election in Alberta for the UCP..Aheer ran in the UCP leadership race, but came dead last.."Today I decided I will not be running for United Conservative Party in the next provincial election," Aheer said in a letter posted to Twitter.."I am a mother, musician, proud wife, friend, entrepreneur advocate, and first-generation Albertan. I'm a rural MLA and my roots and experiences reflect my values I am compelled to give back to my province and community as I had the good fortune of being born and growing up in Alberta.".Aheer stated that's is why she ran for public office in the first place in 2015.."My sincere thanks to those who paved the path for me to serve you. It has been an immense privilege during my time in public life. I have learned so much and I hope that the contributions I've made both to you the contributions that I have made both to my writing and our province have resonated with you, Alberta's advantage is Albertans," Aheer said.."I am and always will be fueled by our strength and resilience. I chose to run for the UCP leadership to reflect my commitment and values and give back to the province that has given so much to my family and me, but the members have stated their wishes for leadership and a new direction for our party. I respect their decision.".Aheer said she will continue to support Alberta's government and honour her commitment to the Chestermere-Strathmore constituency.."Thank you to my team volunteers, friends and family who have worked hard to make our dreams and visions a reality. Thank you to my caucus colleagues, opposition colleagues, college staff, friends and the folks behind the scenes who work so hard on our behalf every day" Aheer said..READ MORE: SLOBODIAN: Aheer eyeing parachute to Calgary-Elbow as nomination prospects worsen.Aheer was the only leadership candidate Smith did not appoint to cabinet..In August, Aheer was humiliated at the riding’s annual general meeting (AGM) when the Chestermere-Strathmore membership showed up in droves and elected all 30 supporters of de Jong to the constituency association (CA) board. The membership had ousted Aheer’s board in January. It was reinstated on a technicality and booted out again..Aheer herself could not be reached for comment. A spokesperson told the Western Standard Aheer likely wouldn’t be available as she has “been declining” media interviews for the past few weeks.."Thank you to the Albertans particularly those from my former riding of Chestermere-Rockyview and new riding of Chestermere-Strathmore for providing me with the opportunity to serve," Aheer said in a letter posted to Twitter..The Alberta provincial election will be held in May 2023 and it's unclear if Aheer will run for another party or if she left politics for good.."Leela, I want to thank you for your years of faithful service to our province and the community of Chestermere-Strathmore. Wishing you the very best on your next endeavour," Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said.
