Wikran Suphamongkol, the 27-year-old nephew of former foreign minister Kantathi Suphamongkol, has decided to jump into the fray with the People Power Party. He said his decision came after he watched his clients suffer from the economic slowdown.

"I used to run a financial company and many of my clients went bankrupt because of the economic situation," he explained.

He said he has had an eye on politics for a while now, but wasn't able to join in because he was studying.

After receiving his master's degree two years ago, Wikran set up his company, though he never dropped the idea of becoming a politician. When he told his uncle that he wanted to run for a seat in Bangkok, "he told me he wanted me to do a doctorate, instead".

However, Wikran said he wanted to follow in his uncle's footsteps. His other role model is Samak Sundaravej.

Wikran admits that he is fresh in this field, has no supporters and will have to rely on senior party members to help him canvass for votes.

"I have to learn to approach people. I have introduced myself to some voters and told them what I can do for them," he said.

He admitted he was a bit worried about the attempt to block People Power Party candidates affecting him as a new face, but he hopes voters will give him a chance because "they will see someone young who can do some good for the nation".