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At the idea of a new leftwing party spearheaded by the former Labour leader and Zarah Sultana was first mooted in the summer, it attracted huge support that countless individuals showed enthusiasm in participating.

Despite being almost immediately plagued by internal conflicts – its founders clashed fiercely over its founding structure and funding model – many expected this weekend's first major event would represent a new beginning.

Troubling First Day

A significant portion of the 2,500 delegates are ex-supporters of Labour, dissatisfied with the agenda of the incumbent leadership and searching for a ideological base as they are concerned by the growing influence of Reform UK.

As plans for the party's launch event were finalised, Sultana and Corbyn seemed to made amends. Participating in a progressive event in Manchester last month, Sultana jokingly compared the partnership to the well-known duo, remarking: “I want to announce the party is active again.”

Yet when the entrances to the event venue in Liverpool were unlocked on Saturday morning, Sultana was conspicuously not present. As Corbyn spoke to kick off the event, she was enjoying a cafe drink in a coffee shop about a mile from the venue.

Structure Disagreement

It became evident there was significant disagreement on how the party needed to be structured. Corbyn informed the press he supported a established hierarchical structure, with a single individual chosen to lead, and indicated he’d be likely to run if members voted for this approach.

However, in an conversation, Sultana said she was backing a collective leadership structure, with crucial policies being taken by ordinary participants – those not already serving as elected officials. She added that she did not think parties should be controlled by “single leaders”. She did, nevertheless, suggest she would be willing to stand opposing Corbyn if there was a election for a sole leader.

Problematic Environment

While Sultana maintained she and the former Labour leader were maintaining a positive relationship – they had, she said, spoken about how they wanted the conference to be “a positive, joyful experience where members gain confidence” – she was scathing about certain supporters and party administrators whom she feels are undermining her. She declined to identify individuals, but it is known that interactions between her supporters and Corbyn’s ex-senior aide Karie Murphy are especially tense.

The politician – who abandoned Labour in July – further stated that there was still a “harmful environment” among others in Your Party, which had resulted in “pressure, coercion and defamation” and “planned interference”.

Boycott and Group Conflicts

Tensions escalated significantly around the afternoon when it was revealed Sultana would not attend the opening day of the conference, in alliance with potential participants who had been refused access from the event due to membership in other progressive movements – especially the Socialist Workers party. Her representative described this as a “political persecution”, adding: “We need to establish a party that is inclusive of all progressives.”

Allies of Corbyn – who wrongly asserted on Saturday morning that the the group was registered with the regulatory body – were angry, claiming Sultana was attempting to stage a “sideshow”. They believe accepting overlapping memberships would lead to problems and heighten group conflicts which already looks to have hindered the emerging organization.

On the status of the SWP, one associate said: “Although it isn't formally recognized by the regulatory body but it is clearly an organization. Its title indicates its nature.”

Concern Among Delegates

Many delegates were frustrated that Saturday’s activities turned into group conflicts when they would have wanted to address crucial matters such as the economic pressures and immigration, as well as planning for next year’s local elections.

The group is has not determined if it will present its own contenders or back socialist independents and some supporters think the party will have not succeeded if it is not listed for election as an replacement for Labour.

Optimism for Day Two

The outcome is uncertain if the conference can be rescued on Sunday, when the outcomes of key votes – such as the party’s permanent name and governance model – will be declared. Sultana is scheduled to participate and give a speech, which has comforted those who still hope for unity.

Yet many participants remained discouraged as they departed of the event venue into a rainy Liverpool night on Saturday. Perhaps the sentiment of the day was summed up by one attendee, who said: “My large glass of wine is turning into a entire container.”