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When the concept of a new progressive party spearheaded by the former Labour leader and the Coventry South MP was originally suggested in the summer, it was so popular that countless individuals showed enthusiasm in joining.

Although it was quickly beset by internal conflicts – its leaders rowed bitterly over its early governance and funding model – many hoped this weekend's first major event would herald a new beginning.

Troubling Opening Day

A sizeable chunk of the participants are people who left the Labour party, disappointed by the policies of the incumbent leadership and looking for a ideological base as they are concerned by the rise of the rival party.

While preparations for the party's first official gathering were finalised, Sultana and Corbyn looked to have resolved their differences. Appearing at a progressive event in Manchester last month, Sultana lightheartedly likened the partnership to the well-known duo, remarking: “I’m here to tell you the show is back on the road.”

Yet when the doors to the meeting hall in Liverpool opened on Saturday morning, Sultana was noticeably absent. As Corbyn spoke to kick off the event, she was drinking a warm beverage in a coffee shop about a short distance from the conference site.

Structure Division

It became evident there was little agreement on how the party should be led. Corbyn stated to reporters he preferred a conventional single-leader system, with a sole leader elected to take charge, and implied he’d be likely to run if members voted for this system.

In contrast, in an discussion, Sultana said she was backing a group decision-making process, with crucial policies being made by ordinary participants – those not presently working as MPs or councillors. She commented that she did not think parties should be controlled by “single leaders”. She did, however, indicate she would be ready to compete in competition with Corbyn if there was a election for a single leader.

Negative Atmosphere

Although Sultana insisted she and the former Labour leader were maintaining a positive relationship – they had, she said, talked about how they desired the conference to be “a positive, joyful experience where members gain confidence” – she was highly critical about some of his allies and group leaders whom she believes are working against her. She declined to identify individuals, but it is understood that interactions between her followers and Corbyn’s previous top advisor Karie Murphy are notably strained.

The politician – who abandoned Labour in July – added that there was still a “harmful environment” among others in Your Party, which had resulted in “pressure, coercion and defamation” and “acts of deliberate sabotage”.

Absence and Factionalism

Conflict came to a head around lunchtime when it was revealed Sultana would not attend the initial sessions of the conference, in solidarity with prospective attendees who had been refused access from the event due to connections to other progressive movements – particularly the the SWP. Her spokesperson called this a “witch-hunt”, stating: “We must build a party that is inclusive of all progressives.”

Corbyn's associates – who wrongly asserted on Saturday morning that the Socialist Workers party was registered with the Electoral Commission – were furious, claiming Sultana was attempting to stage a “sideshow”. They believe allowing multiparty membership would lead to problems and worsen internal divisions which already appears to have crippled the new party.

On the status of the the political group, one associate said: “It might not be formally recognized by the Electoral Commission but it is still a party. The name speaks for itself.”

Concern Among Attendees

Many delegates were frustrated that Saturday’s events descended into factionalism when they would have wanted to discuss crucial matters such as the financial challenges and immigration, as well as preparing for next year’s municipal votes.

Your Party is still considering if it will present its own contenders or support independent socialists and some participants believe the party will have not succeeded if it is not listed for election as an option besides Labour.

Optimism for Sunday

It remains to be seen if the event can be salvaged on Sunday, when the decisions of key votes – such as the final designation and leadership structure – will be declared. Sultana is scheduled to participate and give a speech, which has encouraged those who still wish for agreement.

Yet the majority of attendees remained disheartened as they departed of the event venue into a damp night in the city on Saturday. Perhaps the mood of the day was captured by an individual delegate, who said: “My generous drink is transforming into a entire container.”