He came into public consciousness in 2018, describing himself an advocate for disenfranchised young Londoners and a defender of drill music, which had been accused of glamourising violence.

Fast forward two years and Drillminister, instantly recognisable by his balaclava and circular gold glasses, is to run for London mayor, HuffPost UK can reveal.

The rapper, who grew up in south London, said he wants to advocate for people who feel politically underrepresented.

I didnt really make the choice to go into politics, he said. The public want someone to represent them.

The people that talk to me through my social media, when people see me in the street, when Im on the way to shows, when Im at shows they dont feel represented.

They felt as though I was the perfect candidate. I just took up the responsibility. I didnt really choose this it chose me.

Asked if he would consider removing his balaclava should he be elected, he said it would stay on it is a deliberate move to conceal his identity, and he hopes it will force people to focus more on his message than his identity.

It is understood his legal name wont have to appear on the ballot paper, either, as Drillminister is classed as his commonly used name.

The balaclava is certainly a talking point its seen him mocked and sidelined by parts of the press and some members of the public .

But he says the most important thing is that he reflects the ordinary people who live in the capital.