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When the concept of a new leftwing party fronted by Jeremy Corbyn and the Coventry South MP was originally suggested in the summer, it garnered immense interest that a vast number showed enthusiasm in becoming members.

Although it was rapidly overwhelmed by arguments – its leaders disagreed intensely over its early governance and financial approach – many anticipated this weekend's first major event would represent a renewed effort.

Disappointing First Day

Many of the attendees are former Labour members, disappointed by the direction of the incumbent leadership and searching for a ideological base as they fear the increasing popularity of the competing political group.

As plans for the party's inaugural conference were wrapped up, Sultana and Corbyn seemed to made amends. Participating in a socialist gathering in Manchester last month, Sultana humorously paralleled the duo to the Gallagher brothers, saying: “I want to announce the party is active again.”

Yet when the doors to the event venue in Liverpool opened 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 conference site.

Leadership Disagreement

The situation revealed there was significant disagreement on how the party needed to be structured. Corbyn informed the press he favoured a traditional leadership model, with a single individual elected to take charge, and suggested he’d be prepared to compete if members voted for this option.

In contrast, in an discussion, Sultana said she was advocating for a group decision-making process, with key decisions being made by lay members – those not presently working as MPs or councillors. She commented that she did not think parties should be managed by “individual figures”. She did, nonetheless, suggest she would be ready to compete against Corbyn if there was a vote for a individual head.

Problematic Environment

Despite Sultana claiming she and the previous leader were on good terms – they had, she said, talked about how they desired the conference to be “an uplifting and happy event where members are enabled” – she was highly critical about some of his allies and party administrators whom she feels are undermining her. She would not specify who, but it is believed that the relationship between her supporters and Corbyn’s ex-senior aide Karie Murphy are notably strained.

The Coventry South MP – who left Labour in July – further stated that there was still a “harmful environment” among certain members of Your Party, which had led to “harassment, threats and false accusations” and “intentional disruption”.

Absence and Group Conflicts

Strains came to a head around the afternoon when it was revealed Sultana would boycott the opening day of the conference, in solidarity with prospective attendees who had been turned away from the event due to connections to other progressive movements – notably the the political group. Her aide labeled this a “witch-hunt”, adding: “It is essential to create a party that is inclusive of all progressives.”

Supporters of Corbyn – who mistakenly stated on Saturday morning that the the group was registered with the Electoral Commission – were incensed, accusing Sultana of trying to create a “distraction”. They think permitting dual affiliations would lead to problems and increase the factionalism which already looks to have hindered the emerging organization.

On the status of the the political group, one Corbyn ally said: “Although it isn't formally recognized by the regulatory body but it is clearly an organization. The clue is in the name.”

Frustration Among Participants

Many delegates were frustrated that Saturday’s events turned into internal disputes when they would have wanted to discuss key issues such as the cost of living crisis and border controls, as well as planning for next year’s local elections.

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

Hope for The Second Day

It remains to be seen if proceedings can be rescued on Sunday, when the results of crucial polls – such as the official title and governance model – will be revealed. Sultana is scheduled to participate and deliver an address, which has comforted those who still desire unity.

Yet many participants remained discouraged as they departed of the conference hall into a rainy Liverpool night on Saturday. Perhaps the atmosphere of the day was captured by one delegate, who said: “My generous drink is becoming a full bottle.”