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When the concept of a new progressive party fronted by Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana was initially proposed in the summer, it attracted huge support that a vast number expressed an interest in joining.

Although it was rapidly overwhelmed by disputes – its leaders rowed bitterly over its founding structure and financial approach – many anticipated this weekend's first major event would represent a renewed effort.

Troubling First Day

Many of the attendees are ex-supporters of Labour, disappointed by the policies of the current government and looking for a political home as they worry about the growing influence of Reform UK.

When arrangements for the party's launch event were wrapped up, Sultana and Corbyn seemed to resolved their differences. Participating in a progressive event in Manchester last month, Sultana jokingly compared the partnership to the famous musical siblings, remarking: “Let me assure you the party is active again.”

Yet when the gates to the event venue in Liverpool welcomed attendees on Saturday morning, Sultana was conspicuously missing. As Corbyn gave his introductory speech, she was drinking a warm beverage in a restaurant about a brief walk from the conference site.

Structure Disagreement

It was clear there was no unified position on how the party ought to be governed. Corbyn stated to reporters he supported a traditional leadership model, with a single individual voted into power, and implied he’d be inclined to stand if members selected this option.

In contrast, in an interview, Sultana said she was advocating for a group decision-making process, with key decisions being decided by ordinary participants – those not currently acting as MPs or councillors. She noted that she did not think parties should be run by “sole personalities”. She did, however, indicate she would be prepared to run opposing Corbyn if there was a contest for a sole leader.

Problematic Environment

While Sultana maintained she and the previous leader were on good terms – they had, she said, talked about how they hoped the conference to be “an encouraging gathering where members feel empowered” – she was highly critical about certain supporters and group leaders whom she thinks are working against her. She declined to identify individuals, but it is known that the relationship between her backers and Corbyn’s ex-senior aide Karie Murphy are particularly fraught.

The Coventry South MP – who abandoned Labour in July – added that there was still a “harmful environment” among others in Your Party, which had caused “bullying, intimidation and smears” and “planned interference”.

Absence and Group Conflicts

Strains reached a peak around midday when it emerged Sultana would avoid the opening day of the conference, in solidarity with prospective attendees who had been denied entry from the event due to connections to other leftwing groups – notably the Socialist Workers party. Her spokesperson described this as a “targeted purge”, stating: “We must build a party that welcomes all socialists.”

Supporters of Corbyn – who mistakenly stated on Saturday morning that the the group was officially recognized by the election authority – were furious, accusing Sultana of trying to create a “sideshow”. They think allowing multiparty membership would lead to problems and worsen internal divisions which already looks to have hindered the fledgling movement.

On the status of the the political group, one associate said: “Even if it is not officially listed by the election authority but it is clearly an organization. The name speaks for itself.”

Concern Among Attendees

Numerous attendees were frustrated that Saturday’s proceedings turned into group conflicts when they would have rather address key issues such as the financial challenges and immigration, as well as preparing for next year’s local elections.

The group is still considering if it will field its own candidates or endorse non-aligned progressives and some supporters think the party will have not succeeded if it is not listed for election as an option besides Labour.

Optimism for Sunday

The result is unclear if proceedings can be salvaged on Sunday, when the decisions of important ballots – such as the final designation and organizational system – will be revealed. Sultana is scheduled to participate and speak to the crowd, which has reassured those who still wish for cohesion.

Yet most delegates remained discouraged as they made their way of the conference hall into a rainy Liverpool night on Saturday. Perhaps the sentiment of the day was summed up by a single participant, who said: “My large glass of wine is transforming into a entire container.”