Former NDP MLA Sandra Morin announced that she will be running as an independent in the upcoming provincial election.

The announcement comes after NDP Leader Ryan Meili refused to endorse Morin as a candidate, the reasons for which have yet to be disclosed.

Morin, who served as MLA for Regina Walsh Acres between 2003 and 2011, says she is running to be an alternative for change in Saskatchewan politics.

“I’m announcing my intention to be on the ballot this upcoming election, to deliver a real alternative in Regina Walsh Acres,” said Morin. “A real alternative to the same old entitled Sask. Party, a real alternative to the party games of Mr. Meili that distract from the serious work of building an effective opposition that actually has the strength of experience.”

Morin says she is disappointed in the leadership of Meili, who removed her as a candidate back in August.

“Mr. Meili has yet to even get enough candidates to fill the empty spots needed to run a full slate of candidates this election on every ballot in every constituency,” said Morin. “Yet he has chosen to double down on a campaign of infighting and disrespect. This isn’t the type of leadership we need in Regina Walsh Acres, and it isn’t the type of leadership befitting of the NDP.”

Morin says she decided to run due to overwhelming demand from her constituents, and to her, that’s all that matters.

“I say the only endorsement that really matters is from my home community of Regina Walsh Acres, and from the NDP members that have placed their confidence in me to be a real alternative for change this upcoming election in Regina Walsh Acres.”

Morin will take on NDP candidate Kelly Hardy, who was named her replacement Thursday night, and Sask. Party candidate Derek Meyers.