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As the notion of a new progressive party led by Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana was originally suggested in the summer, it attracted huge support that hundreds of thousands expressed an interest in becoming members.

Even though it became rapidly overwhelmed by internal conflicts – its co-founders disagreed intensely over its initial leadership and funding model – many hoped this weekend's launch gathering would herald a fresh start.

Troubling Opening Day

Many of the 2,500 delegates are former Labour members, dissatisfied with the agenda of the present administration and looking for a political home as they worry about the growing influence of the rival party.

As plans for the party's inaugural conference were wrapped up, Sultana and Corbyn looked to have resolved their differences. Speaking at a progressive event in Manchester last month, Sultana lightheartedly likened the partnership to the Gallagher brothers, remarking: “I want to announce the project is moving forward.”

However when the gates to the conference centre in Liverpool were unlocked on Saturday morning, Sultana was noticeably missing. As Corbyn spoke to kick off the event, she was drinking a warm beverage in a coffee shop about a mile from the venue.

Governance Disagreement

The situation revealed there was no unified position on how the party needed to be structured. Corbyn informed the press he supported a traditional leadership model, with a single individual chosen to lead, and indicated he’d be inclined to stand if members voted for this system.

In contrast, in an conversation, Sultana said she was supporting a collective leadership structure, with key decisions being taken by lay members – those not presently working as elected officials. She noted that she did not think parties should be controlled by “sole personalities”. She did, nevertheless, state she would be prepared to run against Corbyn if there was a vote for a sole leader.

Negative Atmosphere

While Sultana maintained she and the former Labour leader were on good terms – they had, she said, talked about how they hoped the conference to be “a positive, joyful experience where members gain confidence” – she was scathing about some of his allies and group leaders whom she believes are undermining her. She would not specify who, but it is believed that the relationship between her backers and Corbyn’s former chief of staff Karie Murphy are especially tense.

The politician – who defected from Labour in July – added that there was still a “negative atmosphere” among some within Your Party, which had resulted in “bullying, intimidation and smears” and “intentional disruption”.

Boycott and Factionalism

Strains reached a peak around lunchtime when it was revealed Sultana would boycott the opening day of the conference, in solidarity with potential participants who had been refused access from the event due to connections to other progressive movements – especially the Socialist Workers party. Her aide called this a “witch-hunt”, commenting: “We must build a party that is inclusive of all progressives.”

Supporters of Corbyn – who mistakenly stated on Saturday morning that the the group was officially recognized by the election authority – were furious, claiming Sultana was attempting to stage a “sideshow”. They believe permitting dual affiliations would lead to problems and worsen internal divisions which already looks to have hindered the emerging organization.

On the status of the the political group, one Corbyn ally said: “Although it isn't officially listed by the election authority but it is still a party. The clue is in the name.”

Frustration Among Attendees

Many delegates were disappointed that Saturday’s activities became dominated by internal disputes when they would have wanted to address crucial matters such as the economic pressures and immigration, as well as preparing for next year’s regional polls.

The new organization is has not determined if it will field its own candidates or endorse non-aligned progressives and some participants believe the party will have failed if it is not available as a choice as an alternative to Labour.

Hope for The Second Day

It remains to be seen if the conference can be rescued on Sunday, when the decisions of important ballots – such as the official title and governance model – will be revealed. Sultana is scheduled to participate and give a speech, which has reassured those who still hope for unity.

But the majority of attendees remained discouraged as they shuffled out of the meeting space into a damp night in the city on Saturday. Maybe the mood of the day was summed up by one delegate, who said: “My generous drink is becoming a entire container.”