Independent MLA Raj Sherman has confirmed he will run for the Liberal leadership, but insists he will continue sitting as an independent during the remainder of the session.
During a news conference Tuesday, Sherman told media he has now bought a Liberal membership and plans to run for leadership of the Alberta Liberal Party.
"I will be seeking leadership of the party," he said.
Sherman was seen walking and talking with current Liberal Leader David Swann prior to the news conference.
It was about four months ago that Sherman was the junior health minister under the Stelmach Government until he was booted from caucus and left to sit as an independent.
His dismissal came after he criticized his own government on poor health care wait times.
Critics suggest Sherman's move to remain an independent until the election is motivated by money.
"He is playing games, this way he can keep nearly 100,000 in taxpayer money for his office," said NDP Leader Brian Mason.
MLAs that are part of a party receive $67,000 in allowance for research and office staff, but independent MLAs get $162,000 more, a difference of $95,000.
And when CTV News asked Swann if he had any optical concerns in regards to Sherman's decision, he replied: "I think Raj has to do what he has to do."
Sherman has made headlines in the past month after bringing forward serious allegations about cancer care coverups and reports of doctors being paid to keep quiet.
On Monday, Sherman cited his own personal example of intimidation by Capital Health after he says he spoke out at a medical staff meeting in the late 90's.
"Through its health authorities, this government has consistently destroyed the morale of frontline staff by silencing health care workers who speak up. I am one example, but there are many more," he said Monday afternoon.
In a letter addressed to Sherman by then president and CEO of Capital Health, in September of 1999, Sherman was advised that his privileges had been suspended.
The September 14th letter showed Dr. Robert Bear's decision to suspend Sherman was based upon reports he had received.
"I believe this conduct constitutes a material failure to practise medicine to the standards required for physicians practising within Capital Health facilities," he wrote.
The conduct was not described in the letter.
Premier Ed Stelmach had little to say about Sherman's announcement Tuesday.
"I haven't been able to sort out some of the things that have been said by the member before, so please don't ask me to sort out what was said today."
Sherman joins Laurie Blakeman as the only other contender in the Liberal leadership race.
Swann says he is stepping down after the session.
With files from Kevin Armstrong and the Canadian Press
