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When the concept of a recent socialist party fronted by the former Labour leader and the Coventry South MP was originally suggested in the summer, it attracted huge support that hundreds of thousands showed enthusiasm in becoming members.

Although it was rapidly overwhelmed by internal conflicts – its co-founders disagreed intensely over its founding structure and revenue strategy – many expected this weekend's launch gathering would herald a renewed effort.

Troubling First Day

Many of the attendees are ex-supporters of Labour, disappointed by the direction of the incumbent leadership and seeking a ideological base as they fear the increasing popularity of the competing political group.

When arrangements for the party's launch event were completed, Sultana and Corbyn looked to have resolved their differences. Appearing at a progressive event in Manchester last month, Sultana jokingly compared the pair to the well-known duo, stating: “I’m here to tell you the party is active again.”

But when the doors to the conference centre in Liverpool were unlocked on Saturday morning, Sultana was conspicuously missing. As Corbyn gave his introductory speech, she was sipping hot chocolate in a restaurant about a mile from the location.

Governance Division

The situation revealed there was significant disagreement on how the party needed to be structured. Corbyn informed the press he supported a traditional leadership model, with one person voted into power, and implied he’d be prepared to compete if members selected this approach.

In contrast, in an conversation, Sultana said she was backing a collective leadership structure, with crucial policies being decided by ordinary participants – those not already serving as MPs or councillors. She added that she did not think parties should be controlled by “single leaders”. She did, nevertheless, state she would be prepared to run against Corbyn if there was a contest for a single leader.

Problematic Environment

Although Sultana insisted she and the previous leader were getting on “really well” – they had, she said, spoken about how they desired the conference to be “an uplifting and happy event where members gain confidence” – she was scathing about some of his allies and group leaders whom she thinks are briefing against her. She refused to provide names, but it is believed that interactions between her supporters and Corbyn’s previous top advisor Karie Murphy are notably strained.

The elected representative – who abandoned Labour in July – further stated that there was still a “negative atmosphere” among some within Your Party, which had resulted in “bullying, intimidation and smears” and “acts of deliberate sabotage”.

Boycott and Group Conflicts

Conflict escalated significantly around midday when it became known Sultana would not attend the initial sessions of the conference, in support for would-be delegates who had been denied entry from the event due to membership in other socialist organizations – particularly the Socialist Workers party. Her aide called this a “political persecution”, stating: “It is essential to create a party that embraces every left-wing supporter.”

Supporters of Corbyn – who wrongly asserted on Saturday morning that the the group was officially recognized by the election authority – were furious, alleging Sultana had attempted seeking to orchestrate a “sideshow”. They believe permitting dual affiliations would create chaos 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 election authority but it is still a party. The clue is in the name.”

Disappointment Among Delegates

A significant number of participants were annoyed that Saturday’s proceedings became dominated by internal disputes when they would have wanted to discuss important topics such as the cost of living crisis and migration policy, as well as strategising for next year’s municipal votes.

Your Party is has not determined if it will field its own candidates or endorse non-aligned progressives and some members think the party will have fallen short if it is not available as a choice as an alternative to Labour.

Expectation for The Second Day

The result is unclear if proceedings can be recovered on Sunday, when the decisions of key votes – such as the official title and leadership structure – will be announced. Sultana intends to be present and speak to the crowd, which has comforted those who still wish for cohesion.

Yet the majority of attendees remained despondent as they shuffled out of the event venue into a damp night in the city on Saturday. Maybe the atmosphere of the day was expressed by a single attendee, who said: “My large glass of wine is becoming a entire container.”