Winnipeg NDP MLA Bidhu Jha won't seek re-election

Winnipeg NDP MLA Bidhu Jha, who has represented the Radisson constituency since 2003, has announced that he won't seek re-election next year.

"I am looking forward to spending more time with my family and my wife Raj going forward, but I will continue to be involved in this community I am so proud of," he said in a news release Tuesday.

"We have accomplished so much together, and I know we will continue to make life better for families."

During his time in office, Jha served as legislative assistant to the minister of infrastructure and transportation and as a special envoy for international trade.

"Bidhu is a valuable member of our team, and a good friend, with a long history of giving back to his community," Premier Greg Selinger said in the release.

"I want to thank him for his many years of service, and wish him and his family all the best in the future."

Manitobans will go to the polls in a provincial election on April 19, 2016.