But the centrist with a business-friendly stance on economic policies combined with a reputation as a hardliner on law and order will face stiff competition from party rivals.
In any case, opinion polls predict that no left-wing candidate is likely to gather enough support in the presidential election and that conservative Francois Fillon would eventually beat far-right leader Marine Le Pen in a two-way run-off.
"Yes, I am candidate for the presidency of the Republic," Valls said to applause from supporters in his fiefdom of Evry, the gritty southern suburb of Paris where he was mayor for over a decade. [L5N1E00L9]
"I am outraged at the idea that the Left could be disqualified from these presidentials," Valls said, referring to his camp`s poor poll ratings and its divisions. "We must unite," said Valls who later added: "My candidacy is one of conciliation, of reconciliation."
Valls had made no secret of his desire to seek the Socialist ticket and President Francois Hollande`s decision not to run for a second mandate opened the way for him.
Manuel Valls, a tough-talker with French presidential ambitions
Valls announced his resignation as prime minister, saying it would be effective on Tuesday.
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