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When the concept of a new progressive party spearheaded by the former Labour leader and the Coventry South MP was first mooted in the summer, it garnered immense interest that countless individuals showed enthusiasm in joining.

Even though it became quickly beset by disputes – its founders clashed fiercely over its founding structure and funding model – many expected this weekend's launch gathering would signal a fresh start.

Concerning Opening Day

Many of the attendees are ex-supporters of Labour, disappointed by the agenda of the present administration and looking for a new party as they fear the growing influence of the rival party.

While preparations for the party's inaugural conference were finalised, Sultana and Corbyn looked to have made amends. Participating in a socialist gathering in Manchester last month, Sultana humorously paralleled the duo to the well-known duo, saying: “I’m here to tell you the show is back on the road.”

But when the entrances to the meeting hall in Liverpool opened on Saturday morning, Sultana was conspicuously missing. As Corbyn gave his introductory speech, she was drinking a warm beverage in a cafe about a mile from the location.

Structure Disagreement

It was clear there was little agreement on how the party should be led. Corbyn stated to reporters he favoured a traditional leadership model, with a single individual voted into power, and implied he’d be inclined to stand if members voted for this system.

In contrast, in an interview, Sultana said she was advocating for a shared governance model, with key decisions being taken by rank-and-file supporters – those not currently acting as MPs or councillors. She noted that she did not think parties should be managed by “single leaders”. She did, nonetheless, indicate she would be ready to compete against Corbyn if there was a vote for a sole leader.

Negative Atmosphere

Although Sultana insisted she and the previous leader were on good terms – they had, she said, spoken about how they hoped the conference to be “an encouraging gathering where members gain confidence” – she was sharply negative about some of his allies and group leaders whom she believes are briefing against her. She would not specify who, but it is known that the relationship between her followers and Corbyn’s previous top advisor Karie Murphy are particularly fraught.

The politician – who defected from Labour in July – also mentioned that there was still a “toxic culture” among others in Your Party, which had led to “harassment, threats and false accusations” and “acts of deliberate sabotage”.

Protest and Internal Divisions

Strains reached a peak around the afternoon when it emerged Sultana would not attend the first day of the conference, in support for prospective attendees who had been denied entry from the event due to affiliations with other leftwing groups – especially the the SWP. Her representative called this a “targeted purge”, stating: “We need to establish a party that welcomes all socialists.”

Corbyn's associates – who incorrectly claimed on Saturday morning that the SWP was registered with the Electoral Commission – were angry, alleging Sultana had attempted attempting to stage a “secondary event”. They believe accepting overlapping memberships would cause disruption and heighten group conflicts which already looks to have hindered the new party.

Regarding the position of the the political group, one Corbyn ally said: “It might not be registered with the Electoral Commission but it is still a party. Its title indicates its nature.”

Frustration Among Delegates

Numerous attendees were annoyed that Saturday’s activities descended into group conflicts when they would have rather focus on crucial matters such as the cost of living crisis and border controls, as well as planning for next year’s regional polls.

The new organization is yet to decide if it will field its own candidates or back socialist independents and some participants think the party will have not succeeded if it is not available as a choice as an option besides Labour.

Hope for The Second Day

The outcome is uncertain if proceedings can be recovered on Sunday, when the results of crucial polls – such as the final designation and leadership structure – will be revealed. Sultana intends to be present and give a speech, which has comforted those who still wish for cohesion.

But most delegates remained discouraged as they departed of the meeting space into a wet evening in Liverpool on Saturday. Maybe the mood of the day was summed up by an individual participant, who said: “My large glass of wine is becoming a full bottle.”