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At the idea of a new progressive party spearheaded by the former Labour leader and Zarah Sultana was first mooted in the summer, it garnered immense interest that hundreds of thousands registered their intent in becoming members.

Although it was quickly beset by disputes – its founders clashed fiercely over its founding structure and funding model – many expected this weekend's launch gathering would herald a new beginning.

Disappointing Opening Day

A significant portion of the participants are ex-supporters of Labour, disappointed by the policies of the current government and seeking a new party as they worry about the rise of the competing political group.

While preparations for the party's first official gathering were wrapped up, Sultana and Corbyn appeared to made amends. Participating in a socialist gathering in Manchester last month, Sultana jokingly compared the partnership to the Gallagher brothers, saying: “Let me assure you the show is back on the road.”

However when the gates to the conference centre in Liverpool were unlocked on Saturday morning, Sultana was noticeably missing. As Corbyn spoke to kick off the event, she was enjoying a cafe drink in a restaurant about a short distance from the conference site.

Governance Division

The situation revealed there was little agreement on how the party needed to be structured. Corbyn informed the press he preferred a conventional single-leader system, with a single individual elected to take charge, and indicated he’d be prepared to compete if members voted for this option.

However, in an conversation, Sultana said she was advocating for a collective leadership structure, with key decisions being made by rank-and-file supporters – those not presently working as elected officials. She commented that she did not think parties should be managed by “individual figures”. She did, however, indicate she would be willing to stand opposing Corbyn if there was a vote for a single leader.

Problematic Environment

Although Sultana insisted she and the ex-party head were maintaining a positive relationship – they had, she said, spoken about how they hoped the conference to be “an uplifting and happy event where members gain confidence” – she was sharply negative about some of his allies and party administrators whom she believes are undermining her. She refused to provide names, but it is believed that the relationship between her backers and Corbyn’s ex-senior aide Karie Murphy are notably strained.

The politician – who left Labour in July – added that there was still a “negative atmosphere” among certain members of Your Party, which had resulted in “pressure, coercion and defamation” and “planned interference”.

Absence and Internal Divisions

Strains reached a peak around the afternoon when it emerged Sultana would avoid the first day of the conference, in alliance with prospective attendees who had been turned away from the event due to connections to other socialist organizations – especially the the SWP. Her aide labeled this a “targeted purge”, commenting: “We must build a party that is inclusive of all progressives.”

Supporters of Corbyn – who wrongly asserted on Saturday morning that the SWP was listed by the regulatory body – were furious, alleging Sultana had attempted trying to create a “distraction”. They feel accepting overlapping memberships would cause disruption and heighten group conflicts which already appears to have crippled the new party.

Concerning the standing of the Socialist Workers party, one supporter of Corbyn said: “Although it isn't formally recognized by the Electoral Commission but it is clearly an organization. The clue is in the name.”

Disappointment Among Delegates

Numerous attendees were disappointed that Saturday’s proceedings became dominated by group conflicts when they would have preferred to focus on key issues such as the financial challenges and immigration, as well as planning for next year’s regional polls.

The new organization is has not determined if it will present its own contenders or support independent socialists and some supporters believe the party will have not succeeded if it is not on the ballot paper as an replacement for Labour.

Optimism for Sunday

The result is unclear if proceedings can be rescued on Sunday, when the decisions of crucial polls – such as the final designation and organizational system – will be declared. Sultana intends to be present and deliver an address, which has encouraged those who still desire agreement.

Yet many participants remained despondent as they departed of the event venue into a wet evening in Liverpool on Saturday. Maybe the mood of the day was captured by one delegate, who said: “My generous drink is transforming into a full bottle.”