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As the notion of a recent progressive party led by the former Labour leader and Zarah Sultana was originally suggested in the summer, it garnered immense interest that hundreds of thousands registered their intent in joining.

Despite being rapidly overwhelmed by disputes – its leaders rowed bitterly over its early governance and revenue strategy – many anticipated this weekend's first major event would herald a renewed effort.

Troubling First Day

Many of the attendees are former Labour members, disappointed by the direction of the present administration and looking for a ideological base as they fear the growing influence of the competing political group.

While preparations for the party's launch event were finalised, Sultana and Corbyn appeared to resolved their differences. Appearing at a leftwing festival in Manchester last month, Sultana lightheartedly likened the duo to the Gallagher brothers, remarking: “Let me assure you the party is active again.”

But when the doors to the conference centre in Liverpool opened on Saturday morning, Sultana was noticeably missing. As Corbyn gave his introductory speech, she was sipping hot chocolate in a cafe about a brief walk from the venue.

Governance Conflict

It became evident there was significant disagreement on how the party should be led. Corbyn informed the press he supported a established hierarchical structure, with a sole leader voted into power, and indicated he’d be prepared to compete if members chose this system.

However, in an conversation, Sultana said she was advocating for a shared governance model, with important choices being taken by lay members – those not currently acting as political representatives. She commented that she did not think parties should be managed by “single leaders”. She did, nonetheless, suggest she would be ready to compete against Corbyn if there was a contest for a single leader.

Toxic Culture

While Sultana maintained she and the former Labour leader were on good terms – they had, she said, discussed how they hoped the conference to be “an encouraging gathering where members gain confidence” – she was highly critical about certain supporters and group leaders whom she feels are briefing against her. She declined to identify individuals, but it is known that relations between her supporters and Corbyn’s previous top advisor Karie Murphy are especially tense.

The politician – who left Labour in July – further stated that there was still a “harmful environment” among some within Your Party, which had resulted in “bullying, intimidation and smears” and “planned interference”.

Absence and Factionalism

Conflict escalated significantly around lunchtime when it became known Sultana would boycott the first day of the conference, in support for potential participants who had been denied entry from the event due to affiliations with other leftwing groups – especially the the political group. Her aide described this as a “political persecution”, commenting: “We need to establish a party that is inclusive of all progressives.”

Corbyn's associates – who mistakenly stated on Saturday morning that the the group was officially recognized by the regulatory body – were furious, alleging Sultana had attempted trying to create a “distraction”. They think accepting overlapping memberships would cause disruption and worsen internal divisions which already appears to have crippled the fledgling movement.

Regarding the position of the Socialist Workers party, one supporter of Corbyn said: “It might not be officially listed by the election authority but it is clearly an organization. The name speaks for itself.”

Concern Among Participants

A significant number of participants were disappointed that Saturday’s proceedings descended into group conflicts when they would have rather address crucial matters such as the economic pressures and border controls, as well as preparing for next year’s municipal votes.

Your Party is yet to decide if it will field its own candidates or back socialist independents and some participants think the party will have not succeeded if it is not on the ballot paper as an replacement for Labour.

Expectation for Day Two

The result is unclear if proceedings can be recovered on Sunday, when the results of crucial polls – such as the official title and organizational system – will be revealed. Sultana is scheduled to participate and speak to the crowd, which has comforted those who still desire agreement.

But many participants remained discouraged as they shuffled out of the meeting space into a damp night in the city on Saturday. It's possible the atmosphere of the day was captured by a single participant, who said: “My large glass of wine is turning into a entire container.”