The United Progressive Party (UPP) has withdrawn its remaining candidates from ABS Television's Know Your Candidates programme, citing concerns over alleged bias in the show's format and coverage.
According to Antigua.news, the opposition party made the decision after complaints from both its candidates and viewers, who described the programme's host as taking a "combative" approach. The party also raised concerns about what it perceived as negative slant in news coverage following its candidates' appearances.
The UPP formally notified ABS of its withdrawal 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. Candidates Ashworth Azille and Kelvin Simon had appeared on Friday's edition, marking the UPP's initial engagement with the programme before the decision to withdraw was made.
ABS Television has rejected the allegations. The broadcaster maintains that the programme is structured to promote 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.
