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As the notion of a recent socialist party led by the former Labour leader and the Coventry South MP was initially proposed in the summer, it attracted huge support that countless individuals showed enthusiasm in participating.

Even though it became almost immediately plagued by arguments – its leaders clashed fiercely over its initial leadership and financial approach – many hoped this weekend's launch gathering would herald a renewed effort.

Troubling Opening Day

A sizeable chunk of the 2,500 delegates are ex-supporters of Labour, unhappy about the direction of the current government and searching for a political home as they are concerned by the increasing popularity of the competing political group.

When arrangements for the party's inaugural conference were wrapped up, Sultana and Corbyn seemed to made amends. Participating in a progressive event in Manchester last month, Sultana lightheartedly likened the duo to the well-known duo, saying: “Let me assure you the project is moving forward.”

But when the entrances to the conference centre in Liverpool welcomed attendees on Saturday morning, Sultana was conspicuously missing. As Corbyn spoke to kick off the event, she was sipping hot chocolate in a restaurant about a brief walk from the conference site.

Leadership Division

The situation revealed there was significant disagreement on how the party needed to be structured. Corbyn stated to reporters he preferred a established hierarchical structure, with a sole leader chosen to lead, and indicated he’d be inclined to stand if members selected this system.

However, in an conversation, Sultana said she was backing a group decision-making process, with crucial policies being decided by ordinary participants – those not presently working as elected officials. She added that she did not think parties should be controlled by “sole personalities”. She did, nevertheless, state she would be prepared to run in competition with Corbyn if there was a election for a individual head.

Negative Atmosphere

While Sultana maintained she and the ex-party head were maintaining a positive relationship – they had, she said, spoken about how they hoped the conference to be “a positive, joyful experience where members gain confidence” – she was scathing about various associates and group leaders whom she feels are briefing against her. She declined to identify individuals, but it is understood that relations between her supporters and Corbyn’s ex-senior aide Karie Murphy are notably strained.

The politician – who defected from Labour in July – also mentioned that there was still a “harmful environment” among certain members of Your Party, which had caused “harassment, threats and false accusations” and “intentional disruption”.

Boycott and Internal Divisions

Conflict reached a peak around midday when it emerged Sultana would not attend the initial sessions of the conference, in support for potential participants who had been denied entry from the event due to membership in other progressive movements – especially the the SWP. Her spokesperson described this as a “targeted purge”, adding: “We must build a party that is inclusive of all progressives.”

Supporters of Corbyn – who mistakenly stated on Saturday morning that the Socialist Workers party was registered with the regulatory body – were incensed, accusing Sultana of attempting to stage a “sideshow”. They think permitting dual affiliations would create chaos and increase the factionalism which already looks to have hindered the fledgling movement.

Concerning the standing of the Socialist Workers party, one Corbyn ally said: “Even if it is not officially listed by the Electoral Commission but it is still a party. The name speaks for itself.”

Concern Among Participants

Numerous attendees were annoyed that Saturday’s proceedings became dominated by internal disputes when they would have rather discuss key issues such as the cost of living crisis and migration policy, as well as planning for next year’s local elections.

The new organization is has not determined if it will run its own nominees or back socialist independents and some members believe the party will have failed if it is not listed for election as an alternative to Labour.

Hope for The Second Day

It remains to be seen if proceedings can be rescued on Sunday, when the decisions of crucial polls – such as the official title and governance model – will be revealed. Sultana is scheduled to participate and deliver an address, which has reassured those who still desire cohesion.

But most delegates remained discouraged as they shuffled out of the conference hall into a wet evening in Liverpool on Saturday. Maybe the sentiment of the day was summed up by an individual attendee, who said: “My large glass of wine is transforming into a entire container.”