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At the idea of a fresh leftwing party fronted by the former Labour leader and Zarah Sultana was originally suggested in the summer, it garnered immense interest that countless individuals showed enthusiasm in participating.

Even though it became rapidly overwhelmed by arguments – its founders disagreed intensely over its founding structure and financial approach – many anticipated this weekend's launch gathering would represent a renewed effort.

Troubling First Day

Many of the 2,500 delegates are former Labour members, disappointed by the agenda of the incumbent leadership and seeking a new party as they worry about the increasing popularity of the rival party.

When arrangements for the party's first official gathering were completed, Sultana and Corbyn looked to have buried the hatchet. Appearing at a progressive event in Manchester last month, Sultana humorously paralleled the pair to the well-known duo, remarking: “I want to announce the project is moving forward.”

Yet when the entrances to the conference centre in Liverpool welcomed attendees on Saturday morning, Sultana was noticeably not present. As Corbyn spoke to kick off the event, she was drinking a warm beverage in a coffee shop about a short distance from the location.

Governance Division

It became evident there was little agreement on how the party ought to be governed. Corbyn told journalists he preferred a established hierarchical structure, with one person chosen to lead, and suggested he’d be prepared to compete if members chose this approach.

But, 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 controlled by “individual figures”. She did, nonetheless, suggest she would be willing to stand in competition with Corbyn if there was a contest for a individual head.

Problematic Environment

Despite Sultana claiming she and the former Labour leader were on good terms – they had, she said, discussed how they desired the conference to be “a positive, joyful experience where members are enabled” – she was highly critical about various associates and Your Party officials whom she thinks are briefing against her. She would not specify who, but it is believed that the relationship between her supporters and Corbyn’s former chief of staff Karie Murphy are notably strained.

The politician – who defected from Labour in July – further stated that there was still a “toxic culture” among some within Your Party, which had caused “pressure, coercion and defamation” and “acts of deliberate sabotage”.

Boycott and Internal Divisions

Tensions reached a peak around midday when it was revealed Sultana would boycott the first day of the conference, in solidarity with prospective attendees who had been turned away from the event due to affiliations with other socialist organizations – notably the Socialist Workers party. Her aide called this a “political persecution”, adding: “We need to establish a party that is inclusive of all progressives.”

Corbyn's associates – who mistakenly stated on Saturday morning that the the group was listed by the election authority – were furious, claiming Sultana was seeking to orchestrate a “distraction”. They believe accepting overlapping memberships would create chaos and increase the factionalism which already seems to have hampered the fledgling movement.

Regarding the position of the SWP, one associate said: “Even if it is not registered with the Electoral Commission but it is still a party. The name speaks for itself.”

Concern Among Participants

Many delegates were disappointed that Saturday’s events descended into group conflicts when they would have rather address important topics such as the financial challenges and migration policy, as well as strategising for next year’s municipal votes.

The group is still considering if it will field its own candidates or support independent socialists and some participants feel the party will have failed if it is not available as a choice as an alternative to Labour.

Expectation for Sunday

It remains to be seen if proceedings can be rescued on Sunday, when the results of important ballots – such as the final designation and governance model – will be revealed. Sultana plans to attend and give a speech, which has reassured those who still desire unity.

However the majority of attendees remained despondent as they departed of the conference hall into a damp night in the city on Saturday. Maybe the sentiment of the day was summed up by one attendee, who said: “My generous drink is turning into a full bottle.”