🔗 Share this article

At the idea of a new progressive party led by Jeremy Corbyn and the Coventry South MP was originally suggested in the summer, it garnered immense interest that countless individuals showed enthusiasm in joining.

Although it was rapidly overwhelmed by arguments – its leaders disagreed intensely over its early governance and financial approach – many anticipated this weekend's launch gathering would herald a new beginning.

Concerning First Day

A sizeable chunk of the attendees are ex-supporters of Labour, dissatisfied with the policies of the present administration and seeking a ideological base as they fear the rise of the rival party.

When arrangements for the party's inaugural conference were finalised, Sultana and Corbyn looked to have made amends. Speaking at a progressive event in Manchester last month, Sultana humorously paralleled the partnership to the famous musical siblings, remarking: “I want to announce the show is back on the road.”

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

Governance Division

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

In contrast, in an discussion, Sultana said she was advocating for a group decision-making process, with crucial policies being decided by rank-and-file supporters – those not already serving as MPs or councillors. She commented that she did not think parties should be controlled by “single leaders”. She did, however, state she would be willing to stand against Corbyn if there was a contest for a sole leader.

Toxic Culture

Despite Sultana claiming she and the former Labour leader were getting on “really well” – they had, she said, discussed how they hoped the conference to be “a positive, joyful experience where members are enabled” – she was sharply negative about certain supporters and party administrators whom she feels are briefing against her. She declined to identify individuals, but it is known that the relationship between her supporters and Corbyn’s former chief of staff Karie Murphy are particularly fraught.

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 “bullying, intimidation and smears” and “intentional disruption”.

Boycott and Group Conflicts

Conflict escalated significantly around the afternoon when it was revealed Sultana would boycott the opening day of the conference, in alliance with potential participants who had been denied entry from the event due to connections to other socialist organizations – notably the the SWP. Her spokesperson labeled this a “political persecution”, stating: “It is essential to create a party that welcomes all socialists.”

Allies of Corbyn – who incorrectly claimed on Saturday morning that the Socialist Workers party was listed by the regulatory body – were furious, alleging Sultana had attempted attempting to stage a “distraction”. They think allowing multiparty membership would create chaos and increase the factionalism which already appears to have crippled the new party.

Concerning the standing of the the political group, one Corbyn ally said: “Although it isn't formally recognized by the Electoral Commission but it is clearly an organization. Its title indicates its nature.”

Frustration Among Delegates

Many delegates were annoyed that Saturday’s proceedings descended into factionalism when they would have preferred to discuss key issues such as the cost of living crisis and border controls, as well as strategising for next year’s municipal votes.

Your Party is still considering if it will present its own contenders or support independent socialists and some supporters believe the party will have not succeeded if it is not on the ballot paper as an alternative to Labour.

Hope for Day Two

The outcome is uncertain if the conference can be rescued on Sunday, when the outcomes of key votes – such as the final designation and organizational system – will be announced. Sultana plans to attend and speak to the crowd, which has reassured those who still hope for agreement.

However the majority of attendees remained disheartened as they shuffled out of the event venue into a damp night in the city on Saturday. Perhaps the mood of the day was summed up by an individual participant, who said: “My large glass of wine is turning into a full bottle.”