United Democratic front (UDF) President Atupele Muluzi has expressed shock over the untimely death of Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Member of Parliament for Nkhotakota North East Constituency Martha Lunji Chanjo Mhone.

Chanjo Mhone died of COVID-19 at Kamuzu Central Hospital Isolation Centre on Tuesday night in the capital Lilongwe.

Writing on his official facebook page Atupele who partnered former President Peter Mutharika in the 2020 fresh Presidential polls said he saddened with Lunji’s death.

“It is with a feeling of profound sadness and deep emotion that Angela and I learned of the passing of Hon. Martha Priscilla Mhone Chanjo Lunji, DPP Member of Parliament for Nkhotakota North East and former Cabinet Minister.

“On behalf of the UDF, Angela and I send our deepest condolences to the bereaved family, His Excellency Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, Madam Mutharika and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) at this difficult time. We mourn with you as we remember her life and service to Malawi,” wrote Atupele.

He added: “Angela and I were fortunate enough to have worked closely with Hon. Lunji on a number of occasions over the years and having entered Parliament together for the first time in 2004, we were proud to call her our friend.

“We will remember her for the force of her personality and passionate determination to uplifting the lives of the people of Nkhotakota North East. Her death has left a gaping hole among the ranks of women leaders in Malawi. May Her Beautiful Soul Rest In Eternal Peace.”

Mhone will be laid to rest today at her home village in Nkhotakota.