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When the concept of a new progressive party fronted by the former Labour leader and the Coventry South MP was originally suggested in the summer, it attracted huge support that a vast number expressed an interest in participating.

Despite being almost immediately plagued by disputes – its founders clashed fiercely over its founding structure and financial approach – many hoped this weekend's launch gathering would signal a new beginning.

Concerning Opening Day

Many of the 2,500 delegates are ex-supporters of Labour, disappointed by the agenda of the current government and searching for a ideological base as they worry about the rise of Reform UK.

As plans for the party's first official gathering were completed, Sultana and Corbyn appeared to resolved their differences. Speaking at a leftwing festival in Manchester last month, Sultana lightheartedly likened the duo to the famous musical siblings, saying: “Let me assure you the show is back on the road.”

But when the gates to the event venue in Liverpool welcomed attendees on Saturday morning, Sultana was curiously absent. As Corbyn delivered his opening address, she was enjoying a cafe drink in a restaurant about a short distance from the conference site.

Leadership Division

It became evident there was no unified position on how the party should be led. Corbyn stated to reporters he favoured a traditional leadership model, with one person voted into power, and suggested he’d be inclined to stand if members chose this option.

However, in an discussion, Sultana said she was advocating for a group decision-making process, with important choices being taken by lay members – those not currently acting as elected officials. She noted that she did not think parties should be run by “sole personalities”. She did, nevertheless, state she would be willing to stand opposing Corbyn if there was a contest for a single leader.

Problematic Environment

While Sultana maintained she and the former Labour leader were on good terms – they had, she said, discussed how they hoped the conference to be “an uplifting and happy event where members are enabled” – she was highly critical about various associates and group leaders whom she believes are undermining her. She refused to provide names, but it is understood that interactions between her supporters and Corbyn’s ex-senior aide Karie Murphy are particularly fraught.

The Coventry South MP – who abandoned Labour in July – further stated that there was still a “toxic culture” among certain members of Your Party, which had caused “pressure, coercion and defamation” and “planned interference”.

Protest and Group Conflicts

Conflict reached a peak around midday when it emerged Sultana would not attend the initial sessions of the conference, in solidarity with potential participants who had been turned away from the event due to membership in other leftwing groups – notably the the political group. Her aide called this a “witch-hunt”, stating: “We need to establish a party that is inclusive of all progressives.”

Supporters of Corbyn – who mistakenly stated on Saturday morning that the Socialist Workers party was officially recognized by the election authority – were incensed, accusing Sultana of trying to create a “secondary event”. They believe allowing multiparty membership would lead to problems and increase the factionalism which already looks to have hindered the emerging organization.

On the status of the SWP, one Corbyn ally said: “Although it isn't registered with the Electoral Commission but it is nonetheless a political group. Its title indicates its nature.”

Frustration Among Participants

Many delegates were disappointed that Saturday’s proceedings descended into group conflicts when they would have wanted to discuss crucial matters such as the economic pressures and border controls, as well as planning for next year’s local elections.

Your Party is yet to decide if it will present its own contenders or back socialist independents and some supporters believe the party will have not succeeded if it is not on the ballot paper as an option besides Labour.

Hope for Day Two

It remains to be seen if the conference can be rescued on Sunday, when the results of important ballots – such as the party’s permanent name and governance model – will be declared. Sultana intends to be present and deliver an address, which has encouraged those who still wish for agreement.

However most delegates remained disheartened as they shuffled out of the event venue into a rainy Liverpool night on Saturday. Maybe the sentiment of the day was expressed by one participant, who said: “My large glass of wine is becoming a full bottle.”