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As the notion of a fresh socialist party led by the former Labour leader and Zarah Sultana was initially proposed in the summer, it garnered immense interest that a vast number showed enthusiasm in becoming members.

Although it was quickly beset by disputes – its founders rowed bitterly over its initial leadership and financial approach – many expected this weekend's first major event would herald a new beginning.

Disappointing Opening Day

A sizeable chunk of the attendees are people who left the Labour party, disappointed by the direction of the present administration and searching for a political home as they fear the rise of Reform UK.

While preparations for the party's launch event were wrapped up, Sultana and Corbyn looked to have buried the hatchet. Speaking at a socialist gathering in Manchester last month, Sultana jokingly compared the pair to the well-known duo, saying: “I’m here to tell you the party is active again.”

However when the doors to the meeting hall in Liverpool welcomed attendees on Saturday morning, Sultana was conspicuously missing. As Corbyn spoke to kick off the event, she was drinking a warm beverage in a restaurant about a short distance from the location.

Leadership Conflict

It was clear there was little agreement on how the party should be led. Corbyn stated to reporters he supported a traditional leadership model, with a sole leader elected to take charge, and suggested he’d be likely to run if members chose this system.

However, in an conversation, Sultana said she was backing a group decision-making process, with important choices being made by lay members – those not presently working as MPs or councillors. She commented that she did not think parties should be run by “single leaders”. She did, however, state she would be prepared to run in competition with Corbyn if there was a election for a individual head.

Negative Atmosphere

Although Sultana insisted she and the previous leader were on good terms – they had, she said, spoken about how they desired the conference to be “an encouraging gathering where members feel empowered” – she was highly critical about certain supporters and group leaders whom she feels are briefing against her. She refused to provide names, but it is believed that relations between her backers and Corbyn’s former chief of staff Karie Murphy are particularly fraught.

The Coventry South MP – who left Labour in July – also mentioned that there was still a “toxic culture” among certain members of Your Party, which had resulted in “harassment, threats and false accusations” and “intentional disruption”.

Boycott and Group Conflicts

Conflict came to a head around midday when it was revealed Sultana would not attend the opening day of the conference, in alliance with potential participants who had been turned away from the event due to affiliations with other leftwing groups – especially the the political group. Her spokesperson called this a “witch-hunt”, stating: “We must build a party that is inclusive of all progressives.”

Allies of Corbyn – who mistakenly stated on Saturday morning that the Socialist Workers party was registered with the Electoral Commission – were incensed, alleging Sultana had attempted attempting to stage a “secondary event”. They feel allowing multiparty membership would lead to problems and worsen internal divisions which already seems to have hampered the fledgling movement.

Concerning the standing of the the political group, one Corbyn ally said: “It might not be registered with the election authority but it is still a party. The clue is in the name.”

Disappointment Among Participants

Numerous attendees were annoyed that Saturday’s proceedings became dominated by internal disputes when they would have rather focus on important topics such as the financial challenges and migration policy, as well as strategising for next year’s municipal votes.

The new organization is yet to decide 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 replacement for Labour.

Expectation for Day Two

The outcome is uncertain if proceedings can be salvaged on Sunday, when the outcomes of important ballots – such as the party’s permanent name and organizational system – will be announced. Sultana is scheduled to participate and give a speech, which has encouraged those who still hope for cohesion.

Yet many participants remained despondent as they shuffled out of the conference hall into a damp night in the city on Saturday. Perhaps the atmosphere of the day was summed up by an individual delegate, who said: “My substantial beverage is turning into a full bottle.”