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When the concept of a recent progressive party fronted by the former Labour leader and the Coventry South MP was initially proposed in the summer, it attracted huge support that hundreds of thousands expressed an interest in becoming members.

Although it was quickly beset by disputes – its founders rowed bitterly over its early governance and revenue strategy – many expected this weekend's first major event would signal a new beginning.

Disappointing First Day

Many of the participants are ex-supporters of Labour, disappointed by the direction of the incumbent leadership and seeking a ideological base as they worry about the increasing popularity of Reform UK.

As plans for the party's first official gathering were wrapped up, Sultana and Corbyn appeared to made amends. Appearing at a socialist gathering in Manchester last month, Sultana jokingly compared the pair to the famous musical siblings, stating: “I want to announce the project is moving forward.”

Yet when the doors to the meeting hall in Liverpool were unlocked on Saturday morning, Sultana was noticeably absent. As Corbyn gave his introductory speech, she was drinking a warm beverage in a coffee shop about a brief walk from the venue.

Governance Conflict

It became evident there was no unified position on how the party needed to be structured. Corbyn told journalists he favoured a established hierarchical structure, with one person elected to take charge, and indicated he’d be inclined to stand if members chose this system.

In contrast, in an interview, Sultana said she was advocating for a shared governance model, with key decisions being taken by lay members – those not presently working as political representatives. She added that she did not think parties should be managed by “single leaders”. She did, nonetheless, suggest she would be willing to stand against Corbyn if there was a vote for a sole leader.

Problematic Environment

Despite Sultana claiming she and the previous leader were getting on “really well” – they had, she said, spoken about how they desired the conference to be “an encouraging gathering where members are enabled” – she was highly critical about certain supporters and group leaders whom she believes are working against her. She declined to identify individuals, but it is understood that relations between her followers and Corbyn’s previous top advisor Karie Murphy are particularly fraught.

The Coventry South MP – who left Labour in July – added that there was still a “harmful environment” among some within Your Party, which had resulted in “harassment, threats and false accusations” and “planned interference”.

Boycott and Factionalism

Tensions escalated significantly around the afternoon when it emerged Sultana would boycott the first day of the conference, in support for would-be delegates who had been turned away from the event due to affiliations with other progressive movements – particularly the the political group. Her representative described this as a “political persecution”, adding: “It is essential to create a party that is inclusive of all progressives.”

Allies of Corbyn – who wrongly asserted on Saturday morning that the SWP was listed by the regulatory body – were incensed, accusing Sultana of trying to create a “sideshow”. They believe accepting overlapping memberships would lead to problems and increase the factionalism which already appears to have crippled the fledgling movement.

On the status of the the political group, one supporter of Corbyn said: “It might not be registered with the election authority but it is nonetheless a political group. The clue is in the name.”

Disappointment Among Attendees

Numerous attendees were frustrated that Saturday’s activities became dominated by factionalism when they would have rather discuss crucial matters such as the financial challenges and immigration, as well as strategising for next year’s local elections.

The group is yet to decide if it will field its own candidates or endorse non-aligned progressives and some participants believe the party will have not succeeded if it is not on the ballot paper as an replacement for Labour.

Hope for Sunday

The outcome is uncertain if proceedings can be salvaged on Sunday, when the outcomes of important ballots – such as the final designation and governance model – will be declared. Sultana intends to be present and give a speech, which has comforted those who still wish for agreement.

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 captured by an individual participant, who said: “My large glass of wine is becoming a entire container.”