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As the notion of a new socialist party fronted by the former Labour leader and the Coventry South MP was initially proposed in the summer, it garnered immense interest that a vast number expressed an interest in participating.

Despite being quickly beset by disputes – its founders disagreed intensely over its early governance and funding model – many hoped this weekend's launch gathering would signal a fresh start.

Concerning First Day

A sizeable chunk of the participants are people who left the Labour party, dissatisfied with the agenda of the incumbent leadership and looking for a ideological base as they are concerned by the increasing popularity of Reform UK.

As plans for the party's first official gathering were finalised, Sultana and Corbyn seemed to made amends. Participating in a socialist gathering in Manchester last month, Sultana lightheartedly likened the duo to the Gallagher brothers, remarking: “Let me assure you the party is active again.”

Yet when the gates to the event venue in Liverpool welcomed attendees on Saturday morning, Sultana was noticeably not present. As Corbyn delivered his opening address, she was enjoying a cafe drink in a cafe about a brief walk from the location.

Structure Division

The situation revealed there was significant disagreement on how the party needed to be structured. Corbyn stated to reporters he supported a traditional leadership model, with one person voted into power, and suggested he’d be likely to run if members chose this approach.

However, in an discussion, Sultana said she was backing a group decision-making process, with important choices being decided by ordinary participants – those not presently working as political representatives. She commented that she did not think parties should be run by “single leaders”. She did, nevertheless, state she would be willing to stand opposing Corbyn if there was a election for a individual head.

Problematic Environment

Despite Sultana claiming she and the previous leader were on good terms – they had, she said, discussed how they wanted the conference to be “an uplifting and happy event where members feel empowered” – she was scathing about some of his allies and Your Party officials whom she believes are briefing against her. She refused to provide names, but it is understood that interactions between her supporters and Corbyn’s ex-senior aide Karie Murphy are particularly fraught.

The Coventry South MP – who left Labour in July – further stated that there was still a “harmful environment” among others in Your Party, which had led to “pressure, coercion and defamation” and “planned interference”.

Protest and Group Conflicts

Strains came to a head around lunchtime when it was revealed Sultana would avoid the first day of the conference, in support for would-be delegates who had been denied entry from the event due to affiliations with other leftwing groups – particularly the the SWP. Her spokesperson called this a “political persecution”, stating: “It is essential to create a party that embraces every left-wing supporter.”

Allies of Corbyn – who mistakenly stated on Saturday morning that the the group was officially recognized by the election authority – were angry, alleging Sultana had attempted trying to create a “sideshow”. They believe allowing multiparty membership would cause disruption and increase the factionalism which already appears to have crippled the fledgling movement.

Concerning the standing of the SWP, one supporter of Corbyn said: “Although it isn't formally recognized by the regulatory body but it is clearly an organization. The name speaks for itself.”

Disappointment Among Participants

Many delegates were frustrated that Saturday’s events descended into internal disputes when they would have preferred to address important topics such as the financial challenges and migration policy, as well as preparing for next year’s local elections.

The new organization is still considering if it will run its own nominees or support independent socialists and some members believe the party will have failed if it is not listed for election as an option besides Labour.

Expectation for Sunday

It remains to be seen if proceedings can be recovered on Sunday, when the decisions of important ballots – such as the official title and organizational system – will be declared. Sultana is scheduled to participate and give a speech, which has comforted those who still desire unity.

Yet many participants remained despondent as they departed of the event venue into a rainy Liverpool night on Saturday. Maybe the sentiment of the day was captured by an individual attendee, who said: “My generous drink is transforming into a entire container.”