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When the concept of a fresh progressive party led by the former Labour leader and Zarah Sultana was originally suggested in the summer, it was so popular that hundreds of thousands showed enthusiasm in joining.

Even though it became rapidly overwhelmed by arguments – its founders clashed fiercely over its initial leadership and financial approach – many hoped this weekend's launch gathering would herald a new beginning.

Concerning Opening Day

Many of the 2,500 delegates are ex-supporters of Labour, unhappy about the agenda of the current government and seeking a new party as they are concerned by the increasing popularity of the rival party.

As plans for the party's first official gathering were wrapped up, Sultana and Corbyn seemed to buried the hatchet. Appearing at a leftwing festival in Manchester last month, Sultana lightheartedly likened the pair to the well-known duo, stating: “I’m here to tell you the show is back on the road.”

But when the entrances to the conference centre in Liverpool were unlocked on Saturday morning, Sultana was noticeably absent. As Corbyn spoke to kick off the event, she was enjoying a cafe drink in a coffee shop about a short distance from the location.

Governance Disagreement

It became evident there was little agreement on how the party ought to be governed. Corbyn informed the press he preferred a established hierarchical structure, with a sole leader chosen to lead, and indicated he’d be prepared to compete if members chose this approach.

In contrast, in an interview, Sultana said she was backing a group decision-making process, with important choices being decided by rank-and-file supporters – those not presently working as political representatives. She commented that she did not think parties should be controlled by “single leaders”. She did, nonetheless, suggest she would be ready to compete against Corbyn if there was a contest for a individual head.

Toxic Culture

Despite Sultana claiming she and the ex-party head were maintaining a positive relationship – they had, she said, spoken about how they hoped the conference to be “a positive, joyful experience where members gain confidence” – she was scathing about certain supporters and party administrators whom she feels are briefing against her. She declined to identify individuals, but it is known that interactions between her supporters and Corbyn’s former chief of staff Karie Murphy are notably strained.

The politician – who abandoned Labour in July – added that there was still a “toxic culture” among others in Your Party, which had resulted in “bullying, intimidation and smears” and “planned interference”.

Absence and Factionalism

Conflict came to a head around the afternoon when it emerged Sultana would avoid the first day of the conference, in solidarity with prospective attendees who had been denied entry from the event due to membership in other progressive movements – especially the the political group. Her aide described this as a “witch-hunt”, commenting: “We need to establish a party that embraces every left-wing supporter.”

Corbyn's associates – who wrongly asserted on Saturday morning that the the group was registered with the election authority – were incensed, alleging Sultana had attempted attempting to stage a “secondary event”. They feel permitting dual affiliations would create chaos and increase the factionalism which already appears to have crippled the fledgling movement.

Concerning the standing of the the political group, one associate said: “It might not be officially listed by the election authority but it is nonetheless a political group. Its title indicates its nature.”

Frustration Among Attendees

A significant number of participants were annoyed that Saturday’s proceedings descended into factionalism when they would have wanted to focus on important topics such as the cost of living crisis and immigration, as well as planning for next year’s regional polls.

Your Party is has not determined if it will field its own candidates or endorse non-aligned progressives and some supporters think the party will have fallen short if it is not available as a choice as an alternative to Labour.

Expectation for The Second Day

The result is unclear if the event can be rescued on Sunday, when the outcomes of key votes – such as the final designation and organizational system – will be announced. Sultana intends to be present and speak to the crowd, which has reassured those who still wish for cohesion.

Yet the majority of attendees remained disheartened as they departed of the event venue into a rainy Liverpool night on Saturday. It's possible the atmosphere of the day was captured by one delegate, who said: “My large glass of wine is becoming a bottle.”