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As the notion of a new progressive party led by Jeremy Corbyn and the Coventry South MP was originally suggested in the summer, it was so popular that countless individuals showed enthusiasm in participating.

Despite being rapidly overwhelmed by disputes – its founders disagreed intensely over its initial leadership and funding model – many anticipated this weekend's first major event would represent a new beginning.

Concerning Opening Day

A significant portion of the attendees are ex-supporters of Labour, unhappy about the policies of the incumbent leadership and seeking a ideological base as they worry about the increasing popularity of the competing political group.

As plans for the party's first official gathering were completed, Sultana and Corbyn seemed to made amends. Speaking at a progressive event in Manchester last month, Sultana humorously paralleled the partnership to the Gallagher brothers, saying: “Let me assure you the project is moving forward.”

But when the entrances to the meeting hall in Liverpool welcomed attendees on Saturday morning, Sultana was noticeably not present. As Corbyn spoke to kick off the event, she was drinking a warm beverage in a cafe about a brief walk from the conference site.

Governance Disagreement

It was clear there was no unified position on how the party should be led. Corbyn stated to reporters he supported a traditional leadership model, with one person chosen to lead, and indicated he’d be inclined to stand if members selected this option.

In contrast, in an interview, Sultana said she was advocating for a shared governance model, with key decisions being taken by lay members – those not already serving as elected officials. She added that she did not think parties should be managed by “single leaders”. She did, nonetheless, suggest she would be prepared to run against Corbyn if there was a vote for a sole leader.

Toxic Culture

While Sultana maintained she and the former Labour leader were on good terms – they had, she said, talked about how they wanted the conference to be “an uplifting and happy event where members are enabled” – she was sharply negative about various associates and party administrators whom she believes are briefing against her. She refused to provide names, but it is known that relations between her backers and Corbyn’s former chief of staff Karie Murphy are particularly fraught.

The politician – who defected from Labour in July – added that there was still a “negative atmosphere” among some within Your Party, which had caused “bullying, intimidation and smears” and “acts of deliberate sabotage”.

Protest and Group Conflicts

Strains escalated significantly around the afternoon when it was revealed Sultana would avoid the opening day of the conference, in alliance with prospective attendees who had been denied entry from the event due to connections to other progressive movements – especially the Socialist Workers party. Her spokesperson labeled this a “political persecution”, adding: “It is essential to create a party that welcomes all socialists.”

Allies of Corbyn – who incorrectly claimed on Saturday morning that the Socialist Workers party was listed by the regulatory body – were incensed, alleging Sultana had attempted seeking to orchestrate a “distraction”. They believe accepting overlapping memberships would lead to problems and increase the factionalism which already seems to have hampered the fledgling movement.

Regarding the position of the the political group, one associate said: “Although it isn't officially listed by the election authority but it is clearly an organization. Its title indicates its nature.”

Concern Among Attendees

Numerous attendees were annoyed that Saturday’s proceedings descended into factionalism when they would have rather address key issues such as the cost of living crisis and border controls, as well as preparing for next year’s regional polls.

The new organization is yet to decide if it will field its own candidates or support independent socialists and some supporters feel the party will have not succeeded if it is not listed for election as an alternative to Labour.

Optimism for The Second Day

It remains to be seen if the event can be salvaged on Sunday, when the outcomes of important ballots – such as the official title and organizational system – will be revealed. Sultana is scheduled to participate and deliver an address, which has encouraged those who still hope for cohesion.

Yet the majority of attendees remained despondent as they departed of the meeting space into a rainy Liverpool night on Saturday. It's possible the sentiment of the day was summed up by an individual participant, who said: “My substantial beverage is becoming a bottle.”