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When the concept of a new socialist party fronted by the former Labour leader and the Coventry South MP was originally suggested in the summer, it garnered immense interest that a vast number registered their intent in participating.

Although it was rapidly overwhelmed by arguments – its leaders clashed fiercely over its early governance and financial approach – many hoped this weekend's first major event would herald a renewed effort.

Disappointing Opening Day

A sizeable chunk of the 2,500 delegates are people who left the Labour party, dissatisfied with the agenda of the present administration and searching for a political home as they are concerned by the increasing popularity of the rival party.

As plans for the party's first official gathering were wrapped up, Sultana and Corbyn seemed to buried the hatchet. Appearing at a progressive event in Manchester last month, Sultana lightheartedly likened the pair to the well-known duo, stating: “Let me assure you the party is active again.”

However when the doors to the event venue in Liverpool were unlocked on Saturday morning, Sultana was noticeably absent. As Corbyn delivered his opening address, she was enjoying a cafe drink in a cafe about a short distance from the location.

Structure Disagreement

It was clear there was significant disagreement on how the party should be led. Corbyn told journalists he preferred a traditional leadership model, with one person chosen to lead, and implied he’d be prepared to compete if members voted for this approach.

In contrast, in an interview, Sultana said she was backing a collective leadership structure, with key decisions being taken by ordinary participants – those not already serving as elected officials. She added that she did not think parties should be managed by “individual figures”. She did, nonetheless, indicate she would be prepared to run opposing Corbyn if there was a vote for a individual head.

Negative Atmosphere

Despite Sultana claiming she and the previous leader were getting on “really well” – they had, she said, discussed how they hoped the conference to be “an uplifting and happy event where members are enabled” – she was highly critical about some of his allies and group leaders whom she feels are briefing against her. She refused to provide names, but it is known that interactions between her supporters and Corbyn’s former chief of staff Karie Murphy are notably strained.

The elected representative – who abandoned Labour in July – further stated that there was still a “toxic culture” among some within Your Party, which had resulted in “harassment, threats and false accusations” and “acts of deliberate sabotage”.

Protest and Factionalism

Strains reached a peak around lunchtime when it was revealed Sultana would avoid the opening day of the conference, in solidarity with prospective attendees who had been turned away from the event due to affiliations with other progressive movements – particularly the the political group. Her representative labeled this a “political persecution”, adding: “We need to establish a party that welcomes all socialists.”

Allies of Corbyn – who incorrectly claimed on Saturday morning that the the group was registered with the Electoral Commission – were angry, claiming Sultana was attempting to stage a “distraction”. They believe accepting overlapping memberships would create chaos and heighten group conflicts which already looks to have hindered the new party.

Regarding the position of the SWP, one associate said: “Even if it is not officially listed by the election authority but it is still a party. The clue is in the name.”

Concern Among Attendees

A significant number of participants were frustrated that Saturday’s activities became dominated by group conflicts when they would have rather address key issues such as the cost of living crisis and immigration, as well as planning for next year’s regional polls.

The group is yet to decide if it will field its own candidates or support independent socialists and some members believe the party will have failed if it is not listed for election as an alternative to Labour.

Expectation for The Second Day

It remains to be seen if the conference can be salvaged on Sunday, when the results of important ballots – such as the party’s permanent name and organizational system – will be declared. Sultana plans to attend and speak to the crowd, which has encouraged those who still hope for unity.

But most delegates remained despondent as they made their way of the event venue into a rainy Liverpool night on Saturday. Perhaps the mood of the day was captured by one participant, who said: “My generous drink is turning into a entire container.”