The former BC United candidate for Kelowna-Lake Country-Coldstream in the Oct. 19 provincial election has decided to end his campaign.

"It was a difficult decision after contesting and winning a nomination and raising money for BC United, and working so hard with my team to run a successful election campaign," Pavneet Singh explained in a statement.

Singh, along with dozens of other BC United candidates and MLAs, were stunned when leader Kevin Falcon announced he was suspending the party's campaign and recalling candidates during an Aug. 28 news conference.

Singh praised his team for their hard work.

"They were beside me from day one. I can't say enough about how much I value and appreciate them."

The local business owner also thanked MLAs Norm Letnick, Ben Stewart, and Renee Merrifield for their mentorship. He also singled out Coldstream Mayor Ruth Hoyte, Lake Country orchardist Al Gatzke and former MP Darrel Stinson, and the Kelowna Professional Firefighters Association for their support.

"We need a new government," he said. "One that understands the needs of the wonderful people that live here in Kelowna-Lake Country-Coldstream. Unfortunately, my continued candidacy may have caused a split in the vote and made it possible for the NDP candidate to win."

Singh said for that reason he is now supporting BC Conservative candidate Tara Armstrong in the provincial election.

"I am hopeful that she is able to act on the initiatives I would have, like making sure Rutland gets a new middle school."

B.C. needs a government that puts people first and addresses crime, a healthcare system near the breaking point, the housing crisis, and a record deficit with no action or results to show for it, he added.

Former BC United candidates Michael Humer (Kelowna-Centre), Ashley Ramsay (Kelowna-Mission), and Stephen Johnston (West Kelowna-Peachland) have declared that they are running as independents.