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When the concept of a recent progressive party spearheaded by the former Labour leader and the Coventry South MP was initially proposed in the summer, it garnered immense interest that countless individuals expressed an interest in participating.

Even though it became quickly beset by internal conflicts – its co-founders rowed bitterly over its founding structure and funding model – many anticipated this weekend's launch gathering would herald a renewed effort.

Disappointing First Day

A significant portion of the attendees are people who left the Labour party, unhappy about the agenda of the current government and seeking a political home as they worry about the increasing popularity of the rival party.

When arrangements for the party's launch event were completed, Sultana and Corbyn appeared to buried the hatchet. Appearing at a socialist gathering in Manchester last month, Sultana lightheartedly likened the pair to the well-known duo, stating: “Let me assure you the show is back on the road.”

However when the doors to the event venue in Liverpool welcomed attendees on Saturday morning, Sultana was curiously not present. As Corbyn spoke to kick off the event, she was enjoying a cafe drink in a coffee shop about a brief walk from the location.

Governance Division

It became evident there was little agreement on how the party ought to be governed. Corbyn told journalists he supported a conventional single-leader system, with one person chosen to lead, and suggested he’d be likely to run if members voted for this system.

But, in an interview, Sultana said she was advocating for a group decision-making process, with important choices being taken by ordinary participants – those not already serving as political representatives. She added that she did not think parties should be managed by “sole personalities”. She did, however, indicate she would be prepared to run against Corbyn if there was a vote for a sole leader.

Negative Atmosphere

Although Sultana insisted she and the former Labour leader were getting on “really well” – they had, she said, talked about how they desired the conference to be “an uplifting and happy event where members are enabled” – she was scathing about certain supporters and group leaders whom she feels are working against her. She declined to identify individuals, but it is known that the relationship between her backers and Corbyn’s previous top advisor Karie Murphy are especially tense.

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

Boycott and Internal Divisions

Tensions came to a head around the afternoon when it emerged Sultana would avoid the opening day of the conference, in support for prospective attendees who had been refused access from the event due to membership in other socialist organizations – particularly the the SWP. Her aide labeled this a “witch-hunt”, adding: “We must build a party that embraces every left-wing supporter.”

Supporters of Corbyn – who mistakenly stated on Saturday morning that the SWP was listed by the Electoral Commission – were furious, claiming Sultana was trying to create a “distraction”. They feel permitting dual affiliations would create chaos and increase the factionalism which already seems to have hampered the emerging organization.

Regarding the position of the the political group, one associate said: “It might not be officially listed by the Electoral Commission but it is nonetheless a political group. Its title indicates its nature.”

Frustration Among Participants

Numerous attendees were disappointed that Saturday’s events turned into internal disputes when they would have rather discuss crucial matters such as the economic pressures and immigration, as well as planning for next year’s local elections.

Your Party is still considering if it will present its own contenders or endorse non-aligned progressives and some members feel the party will have not succeeded if it is not on the ballot paper as an alternative to Labour.

Optimism for Sunday

It remains to be seen if the event can be rescued on Sunday, when the outcomes of crucial polls – such as the final designation and governance model – will be announced. Sultana is scheduled to participate and deliver an address, which has encouraged those who still desire agreement.

Yet most delegates remained despondent as they shuffled out of the event venue into a wet evening in Liverpool on Saturday. Perhaps the mood of the day was expressed by an individual participant, who said: “My large glass of wine is transforming into a entire container.”