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As the notion of a recent leftwing party spearheaded by Jeremy Corbyn and the Coventry South MP was first mooted in the summer, it garnered immense interest that hundreds of thousands expressed an interest in participating.

Although it was rapidly overwhelmed by arguments – its co-founders clashed fiercely over its founding structure and funding model – many expected this weekend's launch gathering would signal a new beginning.

Troubling First Day

A significant portion of the participants are former Labour members, unhappy about the direction of the current government and looking for a new party as they worry about the growing influence of the rival party.

When arrangements for the party's launch event were finalised, Sultana and Corbyn appeared to resolved their differences. Participating in a progressive event in Manchester last month, Sultana jokingly compared the duo to the famous musical siblings, stating: “I want to announce the party is active again.”

However when the entrances to the conference centre in Liverpool were unlocked on Saturday morning, Sultana was noticeably absent. As Corbyn delivered his opening address, she was sipping hot chocolate in a coffee shop about a mile from the location.

Structure Disagreement

The situation revealed there was significant disagreement on how the party needed to be structured. Corbyn told journalists he supported a traditional leadership model, with one person chosen to lead, and implied he’d be likely to run if members voted for this approach.

However, in an conversation, Sultana said she was backing a collective leadership structure, with crucial policies being taken by rank-and-file supporters – those not currently acting as MPs or councillors. She commented that she did not think parties should be managed by “individual figures”. She did, however, suggest she would be ready to compete against Corbyn if there was a contest for a single leader.

Toxic Culture

Despite Sultana claiming she and the former Labour leader were maintaining a positive relationship – they had, she said, discussed how they hoped the conference to be “an encouraging gathering where members are enabled” – she was highly critical about various associates and party administrators whom she believes are undermining her. She would not specify who, but it is known that the relationship between her supporters and Corbyn’s previous top advisor Karie Murphy are especially tense.

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

Protest and Group Conflicts

Strains escalated significantly around midday when it emerged Sultana would boycott the first day of the conference, in support for prospective attendees who had been turned away from the event due to affiliations with other progressive movements – particularly the Socialist Workers party. Her spokesperson labeled this a “political persecution”, stating: “We need to establish a party that welcomes all socialists.”

Corbyn's associates – who wrongly asserted on Saturday morning that the Socialist Workers party was registered with the regulatory body – were furious, accusing Sultana of attempting to stage a “sideshow”. They believe accepting overlapping memberships would lead to problems and worsen internal divisions which already looks to have hindered the emerging organization.

Regarding the position of the Socialist Workers party, one supporter of Corbyn said: “Although it isn't registered with the regulatory body but it is clearly an organization. Its title indicates its nature.”

Concern Among Delegates

Many delegates were frustrated that Saturday’s events descended into group conflicts when they would have rather focus on 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 run its own nominees or endorse non-aligned progressives and some supporters believe the party will have fallen short if it is not available as a choice as an alternative to Labour.

Expectation for Sunday

The outcome is uncertain if the conference can be salvaged on Sunday, when the decisions of key votes – such as the party’s permanent name and organizational system – will be announced. Sultana is scheduled to participate and give a speech, which has reassured those who still wish for unity.

However many participants remained despondent as they made their way of the conference hall into a rainy Liverpool night on Saturday. It's possible the atmosphere of the day was summed up by one participant, who said: “My large glass of wine is turning into a full bottle.”