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As the notion of a recent progressive party spearheaded by Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana was first mooted in the summer, it garnered immense interest that hundreds of thousands showed enthusiasm in joining.

Although it was quickly beset by disputes – its co-founders clashed fiercely over its initial leadership and revenue strategy – many anticipated this weekend's launch gathering would signal a renewed effort.

Concerning Opening Day

A significant portion of the 2,500 delegates are people who left the Labour party, disappointed by the direction of the current government and seeking a new party as they worry about the growing influence of the rival party.

When arrangements for the party's launch event were wrapped up, Sultana and Corbyn appeared to made amends. Speaking at a progressive event in Manchester last month, Sultana lightheartedly likened the pair to the well-known duo, remarking: “Let me assure you the project is moving forward.”

But when the gates to the conference centre in Liverpool were unlocked on Saturday morning, Sultana was conspicuously not present. As Corbyn delivered his opening address, she was enjoying a cafe drink in a restaurant about a brief walk from the conference site.

Leadership Conflict

It became evident there was significant disagreement on how the party needed to be structured. Corbyn stated to reporters he preferred a established hierarchical structure, with one person chosen to lead, and indicated he’d be inclined to stand if members voted for this option.

In contrast, in an conversation, Sultana said she was backing a shared governance model, with crucial policies being taken by rank-and-file supporters – those not currently acting as elected officials. She commented that she did not think parties should be managed by “sole personalities”. She did, nevertheless, indicate she would be prepared to run in competition with Corbyn if there was a contest for a sole leader.

Problematic Environment

Although Sultana insisted she and the former Labour leader were maintaining a positive relationship – they had, she said, talked about how they hoped the conference to be “a positive, joyful experience where members gain confidence” – she was highly critical about various associates and group leaders whom she thinks are undermining her. She declined to identify individuals, but it is understood that relations between her backers and Corbyn’s former chief of staff Karie Murphy are particularly fraught.

The politician – who abandoned Labour in July – also mentioned that there was still a “negative atmosphere” among others in Your Party, which had caused “harassment, threats and false accusations” and “planned interference”.

Boycott and Factionalism

Conflict reached a peak around the afternoon when it emerged Sultana would avoid the opening day of the conference, in solidarity with would-be delegates who had been denied entry from the event due to affiliations with other leftwing groups – notably the the SWP. Her spokesperson called this a “targeted purge”, adding: “It is essential to create a party that embraces every left-wing supporter.”

Allies of Corbyn – who wrongly asserted on Saturday morning that the the group was listed by the Electoral Commission – were furious, alleging Sultana had attempted attempting to stage a “sideshow”. They feel allowing multiparty membership would lead to problems and increase the factionalism which already seems to have hampered the fledgling movement.

Concerning the standing of the the political group, one supporter of Corbyn said: “Although it isn't registered with the election authority but it is still a party. The clue is in the name.”

Disappointment Among Delegates

A significant number of participants were disappointed that Saturday’s proceedings became dominated by internal disputes when they would have wanted to address important topics such as the cost of living crisis and immigration, as well as strategising for next year’s regional polls.

The new organization is has not determined if it will present its own contenders or support independent socialists and some participants believe the party will have not succeeded if it is not available as a choice as an replacement for Labour.

Expectation for Sunday

It remains to be seen if the conference can be salvaged on Sunday, when the decisions of crucial polls – such as the official title and organizational system – will be announced. Sultana intends to be present and deliver an address, which has encouraged those who still hope for agreement.

But many participants remained despondent as they shuffled out of the conference hall into a rainy Liverpool night on Saturday. It's possible the mood of the day was captured by one attendee, who said: “My large glass of wine is turning into a full bottle.”