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As the notion of a fresh leftwing party spearheaded by the former Labour leader and the Coventry South MP was originally suggested in the summer, it garnered immense interest that a vast number showed enthusiasm in joining.

Even though it became rapidly overwhelmed by internal conflicts – its founders disagreed intensely over its initial leadership and financial approach – many anticipated this weekend's first major event would herald a renewed effort.

Disappointing Opening Day

Many of the participants are former Labour members, disappointed by the agenda of the incumbent leadership and seeking a political home as they worry about the increasing popularity of Reform UK.

While preparations for the party's launch event were wrapped up, Sultana and Corbyn seemed to made amends. Speaking at a progressive event in Manchester last month, Sultana jokingly compared the pair to the Gallagher brothers, saying: “I’m here to tell you the party is active again.”

Yet when the doors to the event venue in Liverpool opened on Saturday morning, Sultana was conspicuously not present. As Corbyn delivered his opening address, she was enjoying a cafe drink in a coffee shop about a brief walk from the location.

Governance Disagreement

It was clear there was significant disagreement on how the party needed to be structured. Corbyn told journalists he supported a conventional single-leader system, with a single individual chosen to lead, and indicated he’d be likely to run if members chose this system.

In contrast, in an discussion, Sultana said she was supporting a collective leadership structure, with important choices being taken by rank-and-file supporters – those not presently working as MPs or councillors. She added that she did not think parties should be run by “sole personalities”. She did, nonetheless, state she would be prepared to run in competition with Corbyn if there was a election for a sole leader.

Toxic Culture

While Sultana maintained she and the ex-party head were getting on “really well” – they had, she said, discussed how they desired the conference to be “a positive, joyful experience where members gain confidence” – she was sharply negative about various associates and party administrators whom she thinks are briefing against her. She would not specify who, but it is understood that relations between her supporters and Corbyn’s ex-senior aide Karie Murphy are especially tense.

The politician – who left Labour in July – also mentioned that there was still a “harmful environment” among some within Your Party, which had caused “harassment, threats and false accusations” and “intentional disruption”.

Absence and Internal Divisions

Strains escalated significantly around lunchtime when it was revealed Sultana would not attend the opening day of the conference, in support for prospective attendees who had been denied entry from the event due to connections to other socialist organizations – especially the the political group. Her representative described this as a “witch-hunt”, commenting: “It is essential to create a party that embraces every left-wing supporter.”

Supporters of Corbyn – who wrongly asserted on Saturday morning that the SWP was registered with the regulatory body – were furious, accusing Sultana of trying to create a “sideshow”. They feel allowing multiparty membership would lead to problems and worsen internal divisions which already looks to have hindered the new party.

Regarding the position of the Socialist Workers party, one Corbyn ally said: “Although it isn't officially listed by the Electoral Commission but it is still a party. Its title indicates its nature.”

Disappointment Among Delegates

Numerous attendees were frustrated that Saturday’s proceedings became dominated by internal disputes when they would have preferred to address key issues such as the financial challenges and migration policy, as well as planning for next year’s regional polls.

The new organization is has not determined if it will field its own candidates or back socialist independents and some supporters think the party will have fallen short if it is not available as a choice as an alternative to Labour.

Expectation for Day Two

It remains to be seen if the conference can be salvaged on Sunday, when the outcomes of important ballots – such as the official title and governance model – will be declared. Sultana is scheduled to participate and deliver an address, which has encouraged those who still desire unity.

Yet many participants remained disheartened as they made their way of the conference hall into a damp night in the city on Saturday. Perhaps the atmosphere of the day was captured by one participant, who said: “My substantial beverage is becoming a entire container.”