Your Party's Inaugural Conference Reveals Few Evidence of a Fresh Start

At the idea of a new progressive party fronted by the former Labour leader and Zarah Sultana was initially proposed in the summer, it attracted huge support that a vast number registered their intent in becoming members.

Even though it became almost immediately plagued by internal conflicts – its leaders rowed bitterly over its early governance and revenue strategy – many hoped this weekend's first major event would represent a new beginning.

Disappointing First Day

A significant portion of the 2,500 delegates are former Labour members, dissatisfied with the policies of the present administration and searching for a ideological base as they fear the growing influence of the competing political group.

As plans for the party's launch event were finalised, Sultana and Corbyn appeared to made amends. Participating in a socialist gathering in Manchester last month, Sultana humorously paralleled the partnership to the well-known duo, stating: “Let me assure you the party is active again.”

Yet when the gates to the meeting hall in Liverpool opened on Saturday morning, Sultana was curiously not present. As Corbyn gave his introductory speech, she was sipping hot chocolate in a restaurant about a short distance from the venue.

Structure Conflict

It was clear there was little agreement on how the party should be led. Corbyn stated to reporters he preferred a conventional single-leader system, with a sole leader chosen to lead, and indicated he’d be likely to run if members chose this option.

But, in an conversation, Sultana said she was supporting a group decision-making process, with crucial policies being made by ordinary participants – those not already serving as elected officials. She noted that she did not think parties should be managed by “individual figures”. She did, however, state she would be willing to stand in competition with Corbyn if there was a election for a individual head.

Toxic Culture

Although Sultana insisted she and the previous leader were getting on “really well” – they had, she said, spoken about how they wanted the conference to be “an uplifting and happy event where members feel empowered” – she was highly critical about some of his allies and group leaders whom she thinks are undermining her. She refused to provide names, but it is known that relations between her followers and Corbyn’s previous top advisor Karie Murphy are particularly fraught.

The Coventry South MP – who abandoned Labour in July – further stated that there was still a “negative atmosphere” among some within Your Party, which had caused “harassment, threats and false accusations” and “planned interference”.

Protest and Group Conflicts

Tensions came to a head around the afternoon when it was revealed Sultana would not attend the first day of the conference, in solidarity with would-be delegates who had been refused access from the event due to connections to other leftwing groups – particularly the Socialist Workers party. Her representative labeled this a “targeted purge”, adding: “We need to establish a party that is inclusive of all progressives.”

Allies of Corbyn – who mistakenly stated on Saturday morning that the Socialist Workers party was registered with the regulatory body – were furious, alleging Sultana had attempted attempting to stage a “distraction”. They believe permitting dual affiliations would cause disruption and worsen internal divisions which already seems to have hampered the emerging organization.

On the status of the Socialist Workers party, one associate said: “It might not be registered with the Electoral Commission but it is still a party. The name speaks for itself.”

Frustration Among Participants

Numerous attendees were frustrated that Saturday’s proceedings descended into factionalism when they would have preferred to discuss crucial matters such as the cost of living crisis and immigration, as well as strategising for next year’s local elections.

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 replacement for Labour.

Expectation for Day Two

The result is unclear if proceedings can be rescued on Sunday, when the decisions of crucial polls – such as the final designation and governance model – will be announced. Sultana plans to attend and deliver an address, which has comforted those who still wish for unity.

Yet the majority of attendees remained disheartened as they shuffled out of the event venue into a damp night in the city on Saturday. Maybe the atmosphere of the day was summed up by a single attendee, who said: “My generous drink is turning into a full bottle.”