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When the concept of a new socialist party fronted by the former Labour leader and the Coventry South MP was first mooted in the summer, it attracted huge support that a vast number showed enthusiasm in participating.

Even though it became almost immediately plagued by arguments – its co-founders clashed fiercely over its early governance and financial approach – many anticipated this weekend's first major event would signal a new beginning.

Troubling Opening Day

A sizeable chunk of the 2,500 delegates are people who left the Labour party, disappointed by the agenda of the incumbent leadership and seeking a ideological base as they worry about the growing influence of Reform UK.

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

Yet when the gates to the meeting hall in Liverpool opened on Saturday morning, Sultana was noticeably absent. As Corbyn spoke to kick off the event, she was drinking a warm beverage in a restaurant about a mile from the venue.

Leadership Division

It was clear there was no unified position on how the party ought to be governed. Corbyn told journalists he preferred a conventional single-leader system, with one person elected to take charge, and implied he’d be likely to run if members selected this option.

But, in an discussion, Sultana said she was advocating for a collective leadership structure, with important choices being made by ordinary participants – those not currently acting as elected officials. She added that she did not think parties should be managed by “sole personalities”. She did, however, indicate she would be willing to stand in competition with Corbyn if there was a contest for a single leader.

Toxic Culture

While Sultana maintained she and the previous leader were maintaining a positive relationship – they had, she said, spoken about how they desired the conference to be “a positive, joyful experience where members are enabled” – 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 followers and Corbyn’s ex-senior aide Karie Murphy are notably strained.

The Coventry South MP – who defected from Labour in July – added that there was still a “toxic culture” among some within Your Party, which had led to “bullying, intimidation and smears” and “planned interference”.

Boycott and Factionalism

Conflict escalated significantly around lunchtime when it became known Sultana would boycott the first day of the conference, in alliance with potential participants who had been turned away from the event due to membership in other socialist organizations – particularly the the political group. Her representative labeled this a “political persecution”, adding: “It is essential to create a party that welcomes all socialists.”

Allies of Corbyn – who mistakenly stated on Saturday morning that the Socialist Workers party was listed by the election authority – were incensed, alleging Sultana had attempted trying to create a “secondary event”. They believe allowing multiparty membership would create chaos and worsen internal divisions which already appears to have crippled the fledgling movement.

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

Disappointment Among Participants

A significant number of participants were disappointed that Saturday’s activities became dominated by internal disputes when they would have preferred to discuss important topics such as the cost of living crisis and immigration, as well as planning for next year’s municipal votes.

The group is has not determined if it will field its own candidates or endorse non-aligned progressives and some supporters believe the party will have not succeeded if it is not available as a choice as an alternative to Labour.

Optimism for Day Two

The outcome is uncertain if the event can be salvaged on Sunday, when the decisions of key votes – such as the final designation and leadership structure – will be announced. Sultana is scheduled to participate and give a speech, which has encouraged those who still hope for agreement.

Yet many participants remained despondent as they made their way of the conference hall into a damp night in the city on Saturday. Maybe the sentiment of the day was summed up by an individual participant, who said: “My large glass of wine is becoming a bottle.”