Former Liberal government minister Rene Hidding has decided not to stand for the seat of Rosevears in the Legislative Council.
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Mr Hidding has broken his silence on speculation that he would make a political comeback after resigning from Parliament after 23 years in the House of Assembly.
The sitting member for Rosevears, Kerry Finch, who has held the seat for nearly 18 years, is still to announce whether he will stand again.
Mr Hidding said despite a concerted effort by others, he would not be a candidate.
"I'm staying out of public life," he said.
Mr Hidding said he was looking to now work in the private sector, but would not elaborate.
He also hit back at Labor for criticising the government for its refusal to reveal his payout after he retired in February this year after an investigation into a sexual abuse allegation. Police investigated and no charges were laid.
"It is not a payout, it is my superannuation, which I contributed to," Mr Hidding said.
The election for Rosevears will be held on May 2 next year.
Launceston councillor and former mayor Janie Finlay has already announced she will run.