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At the idea of a new socialist party fronted by the former Labour leader and Zarah Sultana was originally suggested in the summer, it was so popular that hundreds of thousands expressed an interest in joining.

Even though it became almost immediately plagued by arguments – its founders rowed bitterly over its early governance and revenue strategy – many expected this weekend's inaugural conference would represent a new beginning.

Disappointing Opening Day

A sizeable chunk of the 2,500 delegates are former Labour members, disappointed by the policies of the current government and seeking a political home as they fear the increasing popularity of the rival party.

When arrangements for the party's inaugural conference were finalised, Sultana and Corbyn seemed to made amends. Participating in a leftwing festival in Manchester last month, Sultana lightheartedly likened the partnership to the well-known duo, remarking: “I want to announce the party is active again.”

Yet when the gates to the meeting hall in Liverpool were unlocked on Saturday morning, Sultana was conspicuously not present. As Corbyn gave his introductory speech, she was enjoying a cafe drink in a restaurant about a short distance from the location.

Governance Disagreement

It became evident there was little agreement on how the party needed to be structured. Corbyn stated to reporters he supported a established hierarchical structure, with one person chosen to lead, and implied he’d be likely to run if members selected this option.

However, in an conversation, Sultana said she was supporting a collective leadership structure, with key decisions being decided by lay members – those not currently acting as political representatives. She noted that she did not think parties should be managed by “sole personalities”. She did, however, suggest she would be willing to stand in competition with Corbyn if there was a election for a sole leader.

Negative Atmosphere

Although Sultana insisted she and the previous leader were maintaining a positive relationship – they had, she said, spoken about how they wanted the conference to be “an uplifting and happy event where members are enabled” – she was highly critical about various associates and party administrators whom she thinks are working against her. She declined to identify individuals, but it is known that interactions between her supporters and Corbyn’s ex-senior aide Karie Murphy are especially tense.

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 led to “harassment, threats and false accusations” and “acts of deliberate sabotage”.

Boycott and Group Conflicts

Strains escalated significantly around lunchtime when it became known Sultana would not attend the opening day of the conference, in solidarity with prospective attendees who had been denied entry from the event due to connections to other socialist organizations – particularly the the political group. Her aide called this a “witch-hunt”, commenting: “We need to establish a party that welcomes all socialists.”

Allies of Corbyn – who incorrectly claimed on Saturday morning that the SWP was listed by the regulatory body – were angry, claiming Sultana was attempting to stage a “distraction”. They think permitting dual affiliations would cause disruption and increase the factionalism which already appears to have crippled the emerging organization.

Concerning the standing of the SWP, one associate said: “Even if it is not formally recognized by the election authority but it is still a party. The clue is in the name.”

Concern Among Participants

Many delegates were disappointed that Saturday’s activities turned into internal disputes when they would have rather address crucial matters such as the cost of living crisis and migration policy, as well as preparing for next year’s municipal votes.

The new organization is has not determined if it will run its own nominees or back socialist independents and some members feel the party will have not succeeded if it is not on the ballot paper as an replacement for Labour.

Expectation for Day Two

It remains to be seen if the event can be rescued on Sunday, when the results of key votes – such as the final designation and organizational system – will be revealed. Sultana is scheduled to participate and speak to the crowd, which has encouraged those who still hope for cohesion.

But most delegates remained disheartened as they departed of the event venue into a rainy Liverpool night on Saturday. It's possible the mood of the day was expressed by one attendee, who said: “My substantial beverage is turning into a entire container.”