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When the concept of a fresh socialist party spearheaded by Jeremy Corbyn and the Coventry South MP was initially proposed in the summer, it attracted huge support that countless individuals showed enthusiasm in joining.

Although it was almost immediately plagued by disputes – its co-founders rowed bitterly over its early governance and funding model – many anticipated this weekend's first major event would signal a renewed effort.

Troubling Opening Day

A significant portion of the 2,500 delegates are former Labour members, dissatisfied with the direction of the present administration and seeking a ideological base as they worry about the rise of Reform UK.

While preparations for the party's inaugural conference were finalised, Sultana and Corbyn seemed to made amends. Participating in a progressive event in Manchester last month, Sultana lightheartedly likened the pair to the well-known duo, saying: “I’m here to tell you the show is back on the road.”

But when the gates to the event venue in Liverpool opened on Saturday morning, Sultana was curiously absent. As Corbyn gave his introductory speech, she was sipping hot chocolate in a restaurant about a brief walk from the venue.

Leadership Disagreement

It became evident there was no unified position on how the party needed to be structured. Corbyn informed the press he favoured a traditional leadership model, with one person chosen to lead, and implied he’d be inclined to stand if members voted for this system.

However, in an interview, Sultana said she was backing a shared governance model, with key decisions being decided by ordinary participants – those not presently working as political representatives. She commented that she did not think parties should be managed by “single leaders”. She did, nevertheless, indicate she would be ready to compete opposing Corbyn if there was a election for a single leader.

Problematic Environment

While Sultana maintained she and the ex-party head were getting on “really well” – they had, she said, talked about how they wanted the conference to be “a positive, joyful experience where members feel empowered” – she was scathing about certain supporters and party administrators whom she thinks are briefing against her. She refused to provide names, but it is known that the relationship between her supporters and Corbyn’s former chief of staff Karie Murphy are especially tense.

The Coventry South MP – who left Labour in July – further stated that there was still a “negative atmosphere” among certain members of Your Party, which had caused “bullying, intimidation and smears” and “intentional disruption”.

Absence and Factionalism

Conflict escalated significantly around the afternoon when it emerged Sultana would avoid the opening day of the conference, in solidarity with potential participants who had been refused access from the event due to membership in other socialist organizations – particularly the the political group. Her representative described this as a “political persecution”, stating: “We must build a party that is inclusive of all progressives.”

Corbyn's associates – who mistakenly stated on Saturday morning that the the group was listed by the Electoral Commission – were incensed, claiming Sultana was trying to create a “secondary event”. They feel accepting overlapping memberships would lead to problems and heighten group conflicts which already seems to have hampered the emerging organization.

On the status of the the political group, one supporter of Corbyn said: “Although it isn't formally recognized by the election authority but it is clearly an organization. The name speaks for itself.”

Disappointment Among Delegates

A significant number of participants were annoyed that Saturday’s activities turned into group conflicts when they would have wanted to address crucial matters such as the cost of living crisis and border controls, as well as strategising for next year’s local elections.

Your Party is still considering if it will field its own candidates or support independent socialists and some supporters feel the party will have failed if it is not available as a choice as an option besides Labour.

Hope for Day Two

It remains to be seen if proceedings can be salvaged on Sunday, when the results of important ballots – such as the official title and governance model – will be revealed. Sultana intends to be present and give a speech, which has reassured those who still wish for agreement.

However many participants remained disheartened as they made their way of the meeting space into a wet evening in Liverpool on Saturday. Perhaps the atmosphere of the day was expressed by an individual delegate, who said: “My substantial beverage is transforming into a full bottle.”