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When the concept of a fresh leftwing party spearheaded by Jeremy Corbyn and the Coventry South MP was originally suggested in the summer, it was so popular that hundreds of thousands showed enthusiasm in joining.

Despite being rapidly overwhelmed by disputes – its founders clashed fiercely over its early governance and revenue strategy – many hoped this weekend's first major event would herald a fresh start.

Troubling First Day

A significant portion of the attendees are people who left the Labour party, disappointed by the policies of the present administration and seeking a political home as they fear the rise of the competing political group.

While preparations for the party's launch event were wrapped up, Sultana and Corbyn seemed to made amends. Appearing at a socialist gathering in Manchester last month, Sultana lightheartedly likened the pair to the famous musical siblings, remarking: “Let me assure you the project is moving forward.”

Yet when the doors to the meeting hall in Liverpool were unlocked on Saturday morning, Sultana was noticeably not present. As Corbyn delivered his opening address, she was drinking a warm beverage in a coffee shop about a short distance from the venue.

Governance Disagreement

It was clear there was little agreement on how the party needed to be structured. Corbyn stated to reporters he preferred a conventional single-leader system, with one person chosen to lead, and indicated he’d be likely to run if members chose this option.

However, in an discussion, Sultana said she was supporting a group decision-making process, with crucial policies being made by ordinary participants – those not presently working as elected officials. She commented that she did not think parties should be run by “individual figures”. She did, nevertheless, indicate she would be prepared to run in competition with Corbyn if there was a vote for a single leader.

Negative Atmosphere

Despite Sultana claiming she and the ex-party head were on good terms – they had, she said, discussed how they desired the conference to be “a positive, joyful experience where members feel empowered” – she was scathing about certain supporters and group leaders whom she feels are undermining her. She declined to identify individuals, but it is understood that the relationship between her supporters and Corbyn’s ex-senior aide Karie Murphy are particularly fraught.

The politician – who defected from Labour in July – also mentioned that there was still a “harmful environment” among certain members of Your Party, which had resulted in “pressure, coercion and defamation” and “intentional disruption”.

Absence and Group Conflicts

Strains came to a head around midday when it emerged Sultana would not attend the opening day of the conference, in support for potential participants who had been turned away from the event due to membership in other progressive movements – notably the the political group. Her representative called this a “political persecution”, stating: “It is essential to create a party that is inclusive of all progressives.”

Allies of Corbyn – who mistakenly stated on Saturday morning that the Socialist Workers party was officially recognized by the Electoral Commission – were angry, accusing Sultana of seeking to orchestrate a “secondary event”. They believe allowing multiparty membership would create chaos and increase the factionalism which already seems to have hampered the emerging organization.

On the status of the SWP, one associate said: “Even if it is not formally recognized by the Electoral Commission but it is clearly an organization. Its title indicates its nature.”

Concern Among Participants

Numerous attendees were frustrated that Saturday’s proceedings descended into internal disputes when they would have preferred to discuss key issues such as the financial challenges and immigration, as well as strategising for next year’s municipal votes.

The group is has not determined if it will present its own contenders or back socialist independents and some supporters think the party will have failed if it is not listed for election as an option besides Labour.

Optimism for Day Two

The result is unclear if proceedings can be rescued on Sunday, when the results of key votes – such as the final designation and organizational system – will be declared. Sultana is scheduled to participate and deliver an address, which has comforted those who still desire agreement.

But the majority of attendees remained discouraged as they departed of the event venue into a damp night in the city on Saturday. It's possible the atmosphere of the day was captured by an individual attendee, who said: “My generous drink is turning into a entire container.”