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At the idea of a recent progressive party spearheaded by the former Labour leader and the Coventry South MP was first mooted in the summer, it attracted huge support that a vast number registered their intent in becoming members.

Even though it became rapidly overwhelmed by disputes – its founders clashed fiercely over its founding structure and funding model – many anticipated this weekend's inaugural conference would represent a renewed effort.

Troubling Opening Day

A significant portion of the 2,500 delegates are people who left the Labour party, disappointed by the agenda of the incumbent leadership and searching for a political home as they fear the rise of the competing political group.

As plans for the party's launch event were finalised, Sultana and Corbyn looked to have buried the hatchet. Appearing at a progressive event in Manchester last month, Sultana jokingly compared the duo to the famous musical siblings, stating: “Let me assure you the project is moving forward.”

However when the doors to the meeting hall in Liverpool were unlocked on Saturday morning, Sultana was curiously not present. As Corbyn gave his introductory speech, she was sipping hot chocolate in a cafe about a short distance from the venue.

Structure Division

It was clear there was no unified position on how the party should be led. Corbyn informed the press he supported a established hierarchical structure, with a single individual voted into power, and indicated he’d be likely to run if members voted for this approach.

In contrast, in an conversation, Sultana said she was backing a shared governance model, with crucial policies being decided by rank-and-file supporters – those not currently acting as political representatives. She added that she did not think parties should be managed by “single leaders”. She did, however, state she would be willing to stand in competition with Corbyn if there was a vote for a sole leader.

Negative Atmosphere

Despite Sultana claiming she and the former Labour leader were maintaining a positive relationship – they had, she said, discussed how they desired the conference to be “an uplifting and happy event where members gain confidence” – she was sharply negative about some of his allies and Your Party officials whom she feels are working against her. She declined to identify individuals, but it is understood that relations between her supporters and Corbyn’s ex-senior aide Karie Murphy are notably strained.

The politician – who abandoned Labour in July – also mentioned that there was still a “toxic culture” among certain members of Your Party, which had resulted in “bullying, intimidation and smears” and “acts of deliberate sabotage”.

Boycott and Internal Divisions

Strains reached a peak around midday when it became known Sultana would boycott the initial sessions of the conference, in support for prospective attendees who had been turned away from the event due to membership in other progressive movements – particularly the the political group. Her spokesperson labeled this a “political persecution”, adding: “We must build a party that embraces every left-wing supporter.”

Corbyn's associates – who wrongly asserted on Saturday morning that the the group was registered with the election authority – were furious, alleging Sultana had attempted attempting to stage a “distraction”. They believe permitting dual affiliations would lead to problems and heighten group conflicts which already seems to have hampered the new party.

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

Disappointment Among Participants

A significant number of participants were frustrated that Saturday’s events descended into internal disputes when they would have rather discuss key issues such as the cost of living crisis and immigration, as well as planning for next year’s municipal votes.

The new organization is yet to decide if it will present its own contenders or back socialist independents and some supporters feel the party will have not succeeded if it is not available as a choice as an alternative to Labour.

Expectation for Day Two

The result is unclear if the event can be salvaged on Sunday, when the results of crucial polls – such as the party’s permanent name and leadership structure – will be declared. Sultana intends to be present and give a speech, which has encouraged those who still desire cohesion.

But many participants remained discouraged as they made their way of the conference hall into a wet evening in Liverpool on Saturday. Perhaps the sentiment of the day was summed up by an individual participant, who said: “My large glass of wine is turning into a full bottle.”