UNITED Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) has condemned what it describes as a deliberate act of misinformation after a Facebook page suggested that the party had entered into a political collaboration with Umno–Barisan Nasional (BN).

The allegation stemmed from the page’s post today which implied the existence of a renewed partnership by using an old photograph dated November 1, 2025, showing a meeting between BN and Upko leaders.

In a statement, Upko says it “takes seriously the slander” circulated by the Facebook page, stressing that the photo was being misrepresented to create the false impression of an active cooperation.

Upko clarified that the timeline clearly contradicts the allegation.

According to the party, it officially withdrew from Pakatan Harapan (PH) on November 10, 2025, and since that exit, no political cooperation has existed with any Peninsular-based party, including BN.

“After that date, there has been no form of cooperation with any party from the Peninsula because Upko is no longer part of PH,” the statement said.

The party further warned that the Facebook page must issue an open apology for the misleading post.

Failure to do so, it said, will prompt Upko to pursue firm action, “including legal measures under the Defamation Act 1957 (Act 286).”

The incident highlights the growing concern among political parties over the spread of misinformation on social media, particularly through the use of decontextualised or outdated images.

Upko reiterated its commitment to combating false narratives and urged the public to verify information before accepting or sharing claims circulated online.