UPP Withdraws Remaining Candidates from ABS ‘Know Your Candidates’ Programme

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UPP Withdraws Remaining Candidates from ABS ‘Know Your Candidates’ Programme
UPP has pulled out of ABS’ Know Your Candidate progamme

The United Progressive Party (UPP) has withdrawn its remaining candidates from the state-run ABS Television programme Know Your Candidates, citing concerns over alleged bias in the show’s format and presentation.

According to State Media, the opposition party made the decision following complaints from both its candidates and viewers regarding what it described as a “combative” approach by the programme’s host, as well as what it perceives to be a negative slant in news coverage following the candidates’ appearances.

The UPP formally communicated its decision to ABS on Sunday night, just hours before two of its candidates—Johnathan Joseph and Malaka Parker—were scheduled to appear on Monday’s edition of the programme.

The party had only recently agreed to participate in the series, with two of its candidates, Ashworth Azille and Kelvin Simon, appearing on Friday.

However, ABS Television has rejected the allegations of bias and tendentious reporting. According to State Media, the broadcaster maintains that the programme is structured to ensure accountability and transparency, noting that incumbent candidates are expected to account for their performance in office, while new candidates are given the opportunity to outline their plans and establish a baseline for voters.

This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2026/04/20/upp-withdraws-remaining-candidates-from-abs-know-your-candidates-programme. © 2026 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Comments (10)

  • Anonymous April 20, 2026, 10:28 AM

    Dem cyarn get fu me vote with dem kind ah chupitness dem ah do…aryou sick dawg tommock mow
    Reply
  • Apex Jones April 20, 2026, 10:58 AM

    I fully agree with the UPP and I totally believe them that the host is combative and there is bias. Good move
    Reply
  • Janice April 20, 2026, 12:33 PM

    UPP always in some kind of drama. I can’t see them running this country until they get their acts together
    Reply
  • Beverly April 20, 2026, 12:35 PM

    Pulling out of the programme doesn’t look good at all. If you’re serious about leadership, you should be able to handle tough questions. That’s part of the job, especially when you’re asking people to trust you with their vote.
    Reply
  • Parliament bias too? As UPP MPs even boycotted there April 20, 2026, 5:34 PM

    Pringle has set wimpy and weak culture within the UPP. I could never vote for wimps like their candidates.
    Reply
  • Roystan April 20, 2026, 8:54 PM

    How you wanna run a country and cant answer one question tho
    Reply
  • Ash April 20, 2026, 9:02 PM

    Garfield have a way of trying to embarrass the UPP
    Reply
  • Informed citizen April 20, 2026, 9:04 PM

    I agree. Let ABS fight their rat infestation battle. Stay clear from their NASTYNESSS
    Reply
  • Eddy April 21, 2026, 7:55 PM

    I agree 110%
    Reply
  • Sojourner Truth April 21, 2026, 10:22 PM

    Nonsense! They had no intention of following through beyond that initial 2. A classic set-up for public pity. It’s utter nonsense. The public is tired of their victim games!
    Reply

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