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Supported DUP, the old leaders having deserted (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

upheld

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'supported' is the definition.
(upholding is a kind of supporting)

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

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(Other definitions for upheld that I've seen before include "Sustained" , "Maintained (decision)" , "Confirmed something disputed" , "Maintained (a custom)" , "Supported decision or belief" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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