Your Party's Inaugural Conference Shows Scant Sign of a Fresh Start

At the idea of a new progressive party led by the former Labour leader and the Coventry South MP was originally suggested in the summer, it garnered immense interest that a vast number registered their intent in participating.

Even though it became almost immediately plagued by disputes – its founders disagreed intensely over its initial leadership and financial approach – many expected this weekend's first major event would represent a new beginning.

Disappointing Opening Day

A significant portion of the 2,500 delegates are former Labour members, disappointed by the agenda of the present administration and seeking a political home as they are concerned by the growing influence of the competing political group.

While preparations for the party's inaugural conference were completed, Sultana and Corbyn looked to have made amends. Participating in a socialist gathering in Manchester last month, Sultana jokingly compared the duo to the Gallagher brothers, remarking: “I’m here to tell you the project is moving forward.”

However when the doors to the event venue in Liverpool were unlocked on Saturday morning, Sultana was noticeably missing. As Corbyn delivered his opening address, she was enjoying a cafe drink in a cafe about a brief walk from the location.

Governance Conflict

It became evident there was significant disagreement on how the party needed to be structured. Corbyn stated to reporters he favoured a traditional leadership model, with a single individual voted into power, and suggested he’d be likely to run if members chose this approach.

However, in an conversation, Sultana said she was advocating for a collective leadership structure, with crucial policies being decided by ordinary participants – those not currently acting as MPs or councillors. She added that she did not think parties should be managed by “single leaders”. She did, however, indicate she would be prepared to run against Corbyn if there was a election for a single leader.

Problematic Environment

While Sultana maintained she and the ex-party head were maintaining a positive relationship – they had, she said, discussed how they desired the conference to be “a positive, joyful experience where members feel empowered” – she was sharply negative about some of his allies and group leaders whom she thinks are briefing against her. She declined to identify individuals, but it is believed that relations between her followers and Corbyn’s former chief of staff Karie Murphy are notably strained.

The politician – who abandoned Labour in July – further stated that there was still a “harmful environment” among others in Your Party, which had led to “bullying, intimidation and smears” and “intentional disruption”.

Absence and Internal Divisions

Conflict reached a peak around midday when it was revealed Sultana would avoid the opening day of the conference, in support for would-be delegates who had been denied entry from the event due to connections to other socialist organizations – especially the the political group. Her representative described this as a “targeted purge”, commenting: “It is essential to create a party that is inclusive of all progressives.”

Allies of Corbyn – who incorrectly claimed on Saturday morning that the the group was officially recognized by the regulatory body – were furious, claiming Sultana was attempting to stage a “sideshow”. They believe permitting dual affiliations would cause disruption and heighten group conflicts which already appears to have crippled the emerging organization.

Regarding the position of the SWP, one associate said: “Although it isn't registered with the Electoral Commission but it is still a party. Its title indicates its nature.”

Disappointment Among Delegates

Many delegates were annoyed that Saturday’s events turned into factionalism when they would have preferred to address key issues such as the financial challenges and immigration, as well as preparing for next year’s local elections.

Your Party is has not determined if it will run its own nominees 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 option besides Labour.

Expectation for The Second Day

The outcome is uncertain if proceedings can be rescued on Sunday, when the results of key votes – such as the party’s permanent name and governance model – will be announced. Sultana plans to attend and give a speech, which has encouraged those who still desire agreement.

However most delegates remained disheartened as they made their way of the event venue into a rainy Liverpool night on Saturday. Maybe the mood of the day was expressed by a single attendee, who said: “My large glass of wine is transforming into a entire container.”