United Democratic Front (UDF) President Atupele Austin Muluzi has resigned as Member of Parliament for Machinga North East constituency ahead of presentation of nomination papers to the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC).

UDF Spokesperson Ken Ndanga confirmed of the development in an interview with the press at Comesa Hall in Blantyre on Thursday where Atupele was presenting his nomination paper to MEC.

Ndanga went further by showing the resignation letter to members of the press.

When asked as to whether Muluzi has also resigned as Minister of Health and Population under President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, Ndanga said the party will release a communiqué on the matter in days to come.

Muluzi is the second legislator to resign to pave the way for a presidential bid after leader of opposition in Parliament and Malawi Congress Party (MCP) candidate Lazarus Chakwera announced his resignation on Sunday.

Chakwera cited Section 80 (7)(e) of the Constitution as the justification for his resignation.