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At the idea of a fresh leftwing party spearheaded by Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana was originally suggested in the summer, it was so popular that countless individuals registered their intent in becoming members.

Despite being quickly beset by disputes – its leaders clashed fiercely over its initial leadership and funding model – many anticipated this weekend's first major event would represent a renewed effort.

Concerning Opening Day

A sizeable chunk of the 2,500 delegates are ex-supporters of Labour, unhappy about the policies of the incumbent leadership and looking for a ideological base as they worry about the rise of the rival party.

As plans for the party's launch event were wrapped up, Sultana and Corbyn appeared to resolved their differences. Appearing at a socialist gathering in Manchester last month, Sultana lightheartedly likened the pair to the well-known duo, saying: “I’m here to tell you the show is back on the road.”

But when the gates to the meeting hall in Liverpool welcomed attendees on Saturday morning, Sultana was noticeably absent. As Corbyn gave his introductory speech, she was drinking a warm beverage in a restaurant about a brief walk from the location.

Leadership Conflict

It was clear there was no unified position on how the party needed to be structured. Corbyn stated to reporters he supported a established hierarchical structure, with a single individual elected to take charge, and suggested he’d be inclined to stand if members chose this option.

But, in an discussion, Sultana said she was supporting a collective leadership structure, with crucial policies being taken by rank-and-file supporters – those not currently acting as political representatives. She noted that she did not think parties should be managed by “individual figures”. She did, nevertheless, state she would be willing to stand opposing Corbyn if there was a election for a single leader.

Problematic Environment

Although Sultana insisted she and the previous leader were on good terms – they had, she said, discussed how they desired the conference to be “a positive, joyful experience where members feel empowered” – she was scathing about various associates and party administrators whom she believes are briefing against her. She would not specify who, but it is understood that relations between her followers and Corbyn’s ex-senior aide Karie Murphy are particularly fraught.

The elected representative – who abandoned Labour in July – added that there was still a “harmful environment” among others in Your Party, which had resulted in “pressure, coercion and defamation” and “intentional disruption”.

Boycott and Group Conflicts

Strains escalated significantly around lunchtime when it emerged Sultana would not attend the first day of the conference, in alliance with would-be delegates who had been turned away from the event due to connections to other socialist organizations – especially the the political group. Her aide described this as a “political persecution”, commenting: “We must build a party that welcomes all socialists.”

Corbyn's associates – who incorrectly claimed on Saturday morning that the SWP was listed by the Electoral Commission – were incensed, accusing Sultana of attempting to stage a “secondary event”. They believe allowing multiparty membership would lead to problems and heighten group conflicts which already looks to have hindered the fledgling movement.

Concerning the standing of the Socialist Workers party, one supporter of Corbyn said: “Even if it is not officially listed by the regulatory body but it is clearly an organization. The name speaks for itself.”

Disappointment Among Delegates

Many delegates were disappointed that Saturday’s activities descended into internal disputes when they would have rather discuss key issues such as the financial challenges and migration policy, as well as preparing for next year’s regional polls.

The group is still considering if it will present its own contenders or support independent socialists and some members believe the party will have not succeeded if it is not on the ballot paper as an option besides Labour.

Hope for Day Two

It remains to be seen if proceedings can be recovered on Sunday, when the results of important ballots – such as the official title and governance model – will be announced. Sultana is scheduled to participate and give a speech, which has comforted those who still wish for unity.

But many participants remained discouraged as they shuffled out of the event venue into a rainy Liverpool night on Saturday. It's possible the atmosphere of the day was expressed by a single participant, who said: “My large glass of wine is transforming into a bottle.”