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As the notion of a recent socialist party led by Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana was originally suggested in the summer, it garnered immense interest that countless individuals registered their intent in participating.

Although it was quickly beset by arguments – its founders clashed fiercely over its founding structure and funding model – many expected this weekend's launch gathering would represent a renewed effort.

Disappointing Opening Day

A sizeable chunk of the attendees are people who left the Labour party, unhappy about the direction of the present administration and searching for a new party as they worry about the growing influence of the competing political group.

While preparations for the party's inaugural conference were wrapped up, Sultana and Corbyn appeared to resolved their differences. Appearing at a socialist gathering in Manchester last month, Sultana lightheartedly likened the partnership to the famous musical siblings, stating: “I’m here to tell you the show is back on the road.”

However when the doors to the meeting hall 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 mile from the conference site.

Leadership Disagreement

The situation revealed there was no unified position on how the party needed to be structured. Corbyn told journalists he supported a conventional single-leader system, with a single individual elected to take charge, and indicated he’d be likely to run if members chose this approach.

But, in an discussion, Sultana said she was supporting a collective leadership structure, with crucial policies being decided by ordinary participants – those not presently working as political representatives. She commented that she did not think parties should be run by “individual figures”. She did, however, indicate she would be ready to compete in competition with Corbyn if there was a contest for a individual head.

Problematic Environment

While Sultana maintained she and the previous leader were maintaining a positive relationship – they had, she said, talked about how they desired the conference to be “a positive, joyful experience where members gain confidence” – she was highly critical about some of his allies and group leaders whom she feels are briefing against her. She declined to identify individuals, but it is believed that the relationship between her supporters and Corbyn’s former chief of staff Karie Murphy are notably strained.

The Coventry South MP – who defected from Labour in July – further stated that there was still a “negative atmosphere” among some within Your Party, which had caused “bullying, intimidation and smears” and “intentional disruption”.

Boycott and Group Conflicts

Strains escalated significantly around midday when it was revealed Sultana would not attend the first day of the conference, in alliance with potential participants who had been refused access from the event due to connections to other progressive movements – particularly the the SWP. Her aide called this a “witch-hunt”, adding: “We must build a party that embraces every left-wing supporter.”

Supporters of Corbyn – who incorrectly claimed on Saturday morning that the SWP was listed by the regulatory body – were incensed, claiming Sultana was attempting to stage a “sideshow”. They feel accepting overlapping memberships would lead to problems and heighten group conflicts which already looks to have hindered the emerging organization.

On the status of the the political group, one Corbyn ally said: “Even if it is not officially listed by the Electoral Commission but it is nonetheless a political group. Its title indicates its nature.”

Disappointment Among Delegates

Many delegates were frustrated that Saturday’s events descended into group conflicts when they would have wanted to address important topics such as the financial challenges and border controls, as well as planning for next year’s local elections.

The new organization is yet to decide if it will field its own candidates or support independent socialists and some supporters believe the party will have not succeeded if it is not available as a choice as an alternative to Labour.

Expectation for Day Two

The outcome is uncertain if proceedings can be salvaged on Sunday, when the outcomes of crucial polls – such as the official title and governance model – will be announced. Sultana intends to be present and give a speech, which has reassured those who still wish for unity.

However most delegates remained disheartened as they shuffled out of the conference hall into a rainy Liverpool night on Saturday. Maybe the sentiment of the day was captured by one delegate, who said: “My generous drink is becoming a entire container.”