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When the concept of a recent socialist party led by Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana was initially proposed in the summer, it was so popular that hundreds of thousands registered their intent in becoming members.

Despite being quickly beset by disputes – its leaders disagreed intensely over its early governance and funding model – many hoped this weekend's first major event would represent a new beginning.

Troubling First Day

A sizeable chunk of the attendees are former Labour members, disappointed by the policies of the current government and seeking a ideological base as they worry about the increasing popularity of the rival party.

When arrangements for the party's inaugural conference were completed, Sultana and Corbyn looked to have resolved their differences. Participating in a progressive event 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.”

But when the doors to the conference centre in Liverpool welcomed attendees on Saturday morning, Sultana was conspicuously missing. As Corbyn delivered his opening address, she was enjoying a cafe drink in a restaurant about a short distance from the venue.

Governance Conflict

It became evident there was little agreement on how the party should be led. Corbyn stated to reporters he favoured a conventional single-leader system, with one person voted into power, and indicated he’d be inclined to stand if members chose this system.

But, in an interview, Sultana said she was advocating for a collective leadership structure, with important choices being made by ordinary participants – those not currently acting as MPs or councillors. She commented that she did not think parties should be controlled by “sole personalities”. She did, nonetheless, state she would be willing to stand against Corbyn if there was a election for a sole leader.

Toxic Culture

While Sultana maintained she and the former Labour leader were maintaining a positive relationship – they had, she said, discussed how they desired the conference to be “a positive, joyful experience where members gain confidence” – she was highly critical about some of his allies and group leaders whom she thinks are briefing against her. She declined to identify individuals, but it is known that relations between her supporters and Corbyn’s former chief of staff Karie Murphy are notably strained.

The Coventry South MP – who defected from Labour in July – added that there was still a “harmful environment” among certain members of Your Party, which had resulted in “pressure, coercion and defamation” and “intentional disruption”.

Boycott and Group Conflicts

Strains came to a head around lunchtime when it was revealed Sultana would boycott the initial sessions of the conference, in support for potential participants who had been denied entry from the event due to connections to other progressive movements – notably the the political group. Her spokesperson called this a “targeted purge”, commenting: “We must build a party that is inclusive of all progressives.”

Allies of Corbyn – who wrongly asserted on Saturday morning that the the group was officially recognized by the election authority – were angry, claiming Sultana was attempting to stage a “sideshow”. They think accepting overlapping memberships would cause disruption and increase the factionalism which already looks to have hindered the emerging organization.

Regarding the position of the the political group, one supporter of Corbyn said: “Even if it is not registered with the regulatory body but it is clearly an organization. The clue is in the name.”

Frustration Among Attendees

Many delegates were annoyed that Saturday’s proceedings descended into factionalism when they would have preferred to address crucial matters such as the financial challenges and immigration, as well as planning for next year’s municipal votes.

The new organization is yet to decide if it will run its own nominees or endorse non-aligned progressives and some supporters believe the party will have fallen short if it is not available as a choice as an alternative to Labour.

Expectation for Day Two

The result is unclear if proceedings can be rescued on Sunday, when the decisions of crucial polls – such as the party’s permanent name and leadership structure – will be declared. Sultana intends to be present and give a speech, which has reassured those who still wish for agreement.

However the majority of attendees remained disheartened as they shuffled out of the conference hall into a damp night in the city on Saturday. Perhaps the atmosphere of the day was expressed by an individual delegate, who said: “My large glass of wine is turning into a entire container.”