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When the concept of a new progressive party led by the former Labour leader and the Coventry South MP was initially proposed in the summer, it attracted huge support that countless individuals expressed an interest in becoming members.

Although it was quickly beset by arguments – its leaders rowed bitterly over its founding structure and financial approach – many expected this weekend's first major event would signal a renewed effort.

Concerning Opening Day

A sizeable chunk of the attendees are former Labour members, disappointed by the agenda of the incumbent leadership and looking for a political home as they are concerned by the growing influence of the competing political group.

While preparations for the party's launch event were wrapped up, Sultana and Corbyn appeared to made amends. Speaking at a socialist gathering in Manchester last month, Sultana lightheartedly likened the partnership to the well-known duo, remarking: “I’m here to tell you the party is active again.”

Yet when the gates to the event venue in Liverpool welcomed attendees on Saturday morning, Sultana was conspicuously absent. As Corbyn gave his introductory speech, she was drinking a warm beverage in a coffee shop about a short distance from the location.

Governance Disagreement

The situation revealed there was little agreement on how the party ought to be governed. Corbyn informed the press he preferred a conventional single-leader system, with a sole leader elected to take charge, and indicated he’d be inclined to stand if members selected this approach.

But, in an conversation, Sultana said she was advocating for a collective leadership structure, with crucial policies being taken by lay members – those not already serving as elected officials. She noted that she did not think parties should be run by “individual figures”. She did, nonetheless, indicate she would be prepared to run in competition with Corbyn if there was a election for a single leader.

Toxic Culture

Despite Sultana claiming she and the previous leader were on good terms – they had, she said, talked about how they wanted the conference to be “an uplifting and happy event where members are enabled” – she was highly critical about some of his allies and party administrators whom she believes are briefing against her. She declined to identify individuals, but it is known that relations between her backers and Corbyn’s former chief of staff Karie Murphy are notably strained.

The Coventry South MP – who abandoned Labour in July – also mentioned that there was still a “negative atmosphere” among some within Your Party, which had caused “bullying, intimidation and smears” and “acts of deliberate sabotage”.

Absence and Internal Divisions

Strains came to a head around midday when it was revealed Sultana would boycott the initial sessions of the conference, in solidarity with potential participants who had been refused access from the event due to connections to other leftwing groups – particularly the Socialist Workers party. Her spokesperson called this a “political persecution”, stating: “We must build a party that is inclusive of all progressives.”

Allies of Corbyn – who incorrectly claimed on Saturday morning that the Socialist Workers party was registered with the regulatory body – were angry, claiming Sultana was seeking to orchestrate a “distraction”. They feel allowing multiparty membership would create chaos and worsen internal divisions which already appears to have crippled the fledgling movement.

Regarding the position of the SWP, one associate said: “Even if it is not registered with the regulatory body but it is still a party. Its title indicates its nature.”

Concern Among Participants

Numerous attendees were frustrated that Saturday’s activities turned into internal disputes when they would have rather address important topics such as the economic pressures and border controls, as well as preparing for next year’s municipal votes.

Your Party is yet to decide if it will field its own candidates or back socialist independents and some members believe the party will have fallen short if it is not on the ballot paper as an option besides Labour.

Expectation for Day Two

The outcome is uncertain if proceedings can be rescued on Sunday, when the results of important ballots – such as the official title and leadership structure – will be announced. Sultana is scheduled to participate and speak to the crowd, which has reassured those who still desire cohesion.

But the majority of attendees remained discouraged as they made their way of the meeting space into a damp night in the city on Saturday. It's possible the mood of the day was captured by a single attendee, who said: “My generous drink is transforming into a bottle.”