🔗 Share this article

When the concept of a fresh leftwing party fronted by the former Labour leader and the Coventry South MP was originally suggested in the summer, it was so popular that hundreds of thousands registered their intent in becoming members.

Although it was almost immediately plagued by internal conflicts – its co-founders rowed bitterly over its initial leadership and revenue strategy – many expected this weekend's inaugural conference would signal a renewed effort.

Troubling First Day

Many of the attendees are former Labour members, disappointed by the direction of the current government and seeking a political home as they are concerned by the rise of Reform UK.

As plans for the party's launch event were completed, Sultana and Corbyn appeared to made amends. Participating in a progressive event in Manchester last month, Sultana jokingly compared the partnership to the famous musical siblings, stating: “Let me assure you the party is active again.”

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

Structure Conflict

It was clear there was no unified position on how the party ought to be governed. Corbyn informed the press he favoured a conventional single-leader system, with one person voted into power, and indicated he’d be prepared to compete if members chose this option.

In contrast, in an discussion, Sultana said she was supporting a shared governance model, with important choices being decided by ordinary participants – those not already serving as elected officials. She noted that she did not think parties should be controlled by “single leaders”. She did, however, indicate she would be willing to stand against Corbyn if there was a contest for a individual head.

Negative Atmosphere

Despite Sultana claiming she and the former Labour leader were getting on “really well” – they had, she said, spoken about how they desired the conference to be “a positive, joyful experience where members are enabled” – she was sharply negative about some of his allies and party administrators whom she believes are working against her. She declined to identify individuals, but it is understood that the relationship between her followers and Corbyn’s ex-senior aide Karie Murphy are especially tense.

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

Boycott and Internal Divisions

Tensions escalated significantly around midday when it became known Sultana would boycott the initial sessions of the conference, in solidarity with potential participants who had been refused access from the event due to membership in other socialist organizations – particularly the the political group. Her representative called this a “targeted purge”, commenting: “It is essential to create a party that is inclusive of all progressives.”

Supporters of Corbyn – who wrongly asserted on Saturday morning that the SWP was officially recognized by the election authority – were furious, accusing Sultana of seeking to orchestrate a “sideshow”. They believe allowing multiparty membership would lead to problems and increase the factionalism which already appears to have crippled the fledgling movement.

On the status of the the political group, one Corbyn ally said: “Even if it is not formally recognized by the Electoral Commission but it is still a party. The name speaks for itself.”

Concern Among Attendees

Numerous attendees were frustrated that Saturday’s activities turned into group conflicts when they would have preferred to focus on key issues such as the financial challenges and border controls, as well as preparing for next year’s local elections.

The group is has not determined if it will field its own candidates or endorse non-aligned progressives and some participants believe the party will have fallen short if it is not available as a choice as an option besides Labour.

Optimism for The Second Day

It remains to be seen if the conference can be rescued on Sunday, when the results of important ballots – such as the party’s permanent name and organizational system – will be revealed. Sultana plans to attend and deliver an address, which has reassured those who still desire cohesion.

But most delegates remained discouraged as they shuffled out of the conference hall into a damp night in the city on Saturday. Maybe the atmosphere of the day was summed up by an individual delegate, who said: “My substantial beverage is turning into a entire container.”