UPP Withdraws Remaining Candidates from ABS ‘Know Your Candidates’ Programme
The United Progressive Party (UPP) has withdrawn its remaining candidates from the state-run ABS Television programme Know Your Candidates, citing concerns over alleged bias in the show’s format and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
Apex Jones April 20, 2026, 10:58 AM
Janice April 20, 2026, 12:33 PM
Beverly April 20, 2026, 12:35 PM
Parliament bias too? As UPP MPs even boycotted there April 20, 2026, 5:34 PM
Roystan April 20, 2026, 8:54 PM
Ash April 20, 2026, 9:02 PM
Informed citizen April 20, 2026, 9:04 PM
Eddy April 21, 2026, 7:55 PM
Sojourner Truth April 21, 2026, 10:22 PM