🔗 Share this article

At the idea of a recent socialist party spearheaded by Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana was originally suggested in the summer, it garnered immense interest that a vast number registered their intent in joining.

Although it was quickly beset by disputes – its founders disagreed intensely over its early governance and funding model – many expected this weekend's inaugural conference would herald a new beginning.

Disappointing First Day

A significant portion of the 2,500 delegates are ex-supporters of Labour, disappointed by the direction of the current government and looking for a new party as they are concerned by the growing influence of the rival party.

As plans for the party's inaugural conference were finalised, Sultana and Corbyn seemed to buried the hatchet. Appearing at a socialist gathering in Manchester last month, Sultana humorously paralleled the pair 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 curiously absent. As Corbyn gave his introductory speech, she was drinking a warm beverage in a restaurant about a mile from the conference site.

Governance Disagreement

It became evident there was significant disagreement on how the party ought to be governed. Corbyn informed the press he preferred a established hierarchical structure, with one person voted into power, and suggested he’d be inclined to stand if members selected this option.

But, in an interview, Sultana said she was backing a shared governance model, with key decisions being decided by rank-and-file supporters – those not already serving as political representatives. She commented that she did not think parties should be run by “sole personalities”. She did, nevertheless, state she would be ready to compete opposing Corbyn if there was a contest for a individual head.

Negative Atmosphere

While Sultana maintained she and the former Labour leader were maintaining a positive relationship – they had, she said, discussed how they desired the conference to be “an encouraging gathering where members gain confidence” – she was sharply negative about various associates and group leaders whom she believes are briefing against her. She would not specify who, but it is understood that the relationship between her backers and Corbyn’s former chief of staff Karie Murphy are notably strained.

The elected representative – who abandoned Labour in July – also mentioned that there was still a “toxic culture” among some within Your Party, which had caused “pressure, coercion and defamation” and “acts of deliberate sabotage”.

Boycott and Internal Divisions

Conflict came to a head around lunchtime when it was revealed Sultana would not attend the opening day of the conference, in support for prospective attendees who had been refused access from the event due to affiliations with other socialist organizations – especially the the SWP. Her spokesperson labeled this a “political persecution”, commenting: “It is essential to create a party that is inclusive of all progressives.”

Corbyn's associates – who incorrectly claimed on Saturday morning that the Socialist Workers party was officially recognized by the regulatory body – were incensed, accusing Sultana of attempting to stage a “sideshow”. They think permitting dual affiliations would create chaos and heighten group conflicts which already seems to have hampered the fledgling movement.

Regarding the position of the the political group, one Corbyn ally said: “Even if it is not registered with the regulatory body but it is still a party. The clue is in the name.”

Frustration Among Attendees

Numerous attendees were frustrated that Saturday’s events descended into internal disputes when they would have rather address important topics such as the economic pressures and migration policy, as well as strategising for next year’s local elections.

The group is yet to decide if it will present its own contenders or support independent socialists and some participants believe the party will have not succeeded if it is not listed for election as an replacement for Labour.

Expectation for The Second Day

The outcome is uncertain if proceedings can be rescued on Sunday, when the outcomes of key votes – such as the final designation and leadership structure – will be revealed. Sultana intends to be present and deliver an address, which has reassured those who still desire unity.

However the majority of attendees remained disheartened as they shuffled out of the event venue into a damp night in the city on Saturday. Maybe the atmosphere of the day was captured by an individual delegate, who said: “My substantial beverage is becoming a entire container.”