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At the idea of a new progressive party led by Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana was originally suggested in the summer, it attracted huge support that a vast number registered their intent in becoming members.

Although it was rapidly overwhelmed by disputes – its leaders disagreed intensely over its founding structure and revenue strategy – many anticipated this weekend's launch gathering would herald a renewed effort.

Disappointing Opening Day

Many of the participants are ex-supporters of Labour, disappointed by the agenda of the present administration and looking for a new party as they fear the growing influence of Reform UK.

While preparations for the party's launch event were completed, Sultana and Corbyn looked to have resolved their differences. Speaking at a progressive event in Manchester last month, Sultana humorously paralleled the pair to the Gallagher brothers, saying: “I’m here to tell you the party is active again.”

But when the doors to the meeting hall in Liverpool opened on Saturday morning, Sultana was noticeably not present. As Corbyn delivered his opening address, she was drinking a warm beverage in a cafe about a mile from the location.

Leadership Disagreement

It was clear there was no unified position on how the party should be led. Corbyn informed the press he favoured a conventional single-leader system, with a single individual chosen to lead, and indicated he’d be likely to run if members voted for this option.

However, in an discussion, Sultana said she was backing a shared governance model, with important choices being taken by ordinary participants – those not currently acting as MPs or councillors. She noted that she did not think parties should be controlled by “individual figures”. She did, however, indicate she would be prepared to run against Corbyn if there was a contest for a sole leader.

Toxic Culture

Despite Sultana claiming she and the previous leader were maintaining a positive relationship – they had, she said, spoken about how they hoped the conference to be “a positive, joyful experience where members feel empowered” – she was highly critical about some of his allies and Your Party officials whom she believes are working against her. She refused to provide names, but it is known that relations between her supporters and Corbyn’s ex-senior aide Karie Murphy are notably strained.

The politician – who abandoned Labour in July – further stated that there was still a “negative atmosphere” among certain members of Your Party, which had led to “pressure, coercion and defamation” and “intentional disruption”.

Absence and Internal Divisions

Conflict escalated significantly around lunchtime when it emerged Sultana would not attend 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 – notably the the political group. Her spokesperson labeled this a “targeted purge”, commenting: “We need to establish a party that embraces every left-wing supporter.”

Allies of Corbyn – who wrongly asserted on Saturday morning that the Socialist Workers party was registered with the regulatory body – were furious, accusing Sultana of seeking to orchestrate a “sideshow”. They think permitting dual affiliations would cause disruption and heighten group conflicts which already looks to have hindered the new party.

Concerning the standing of the the political group, one supporter of Corbyn said: “It might not be formally recognized by the Electoral Commission but it is still a party. The clue is in the name.”

Concern Among Participants

Many delegates were annoyed that Saturday’s proceedings turned into factionalism when they would have rather address key issues such as the economic pressures and migration policy, as well as strategising for next year’s municipal votes.

The new organization is still considering if it will present its own contenders or endorse non-aligned progressives and some supporters think the party will have fallen short if it is not listed for election as an option besides Labour.

Optimism for Sunday

The outcome is uncertain if proceedings can be recovered on Sunday, when the results of key votes – such as the official title and organizational system – will be announced. Sultana is scheduled to participate and give a speech, which has comforted those who still wish for cohesion.

But most delegates 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 a single participant, who said: “My large glass of wine is becoming a bottle.”