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When the concept of a new socialist party led by the former Labour leader and the Coventry South MP was initially proposed in the summer, it garnered immense interest that a vast number showed enthusiasm in becoming members.

Although it was almost immediately plagued by arguments – its founders clashed fiercely over its founding structure and funding model – many anticipated this weekend's first major event would represent a new beginning.

Troubling First Day

Many of the attendees are ex-supporters of Labour, dissatisfied with the agenda of the current government and looking for a new party as they fear the growing influence of the rival party.

When arrangements for the party's launch event were wrapped up, Sultana and Corbyn seemed to made amends. Speaking at a leftwing festival in Manchester last month, Sultana jokingly compared the pair to the well-known duo, remarking: “I’m here to tell you the show is back on the road.”

Yet when the doors 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 enjoying a cafe drink in a restaurant about a mile from the location.

Leadership Disagreement

It was clear there was significant disagreement on how the party should be led. Corbyn stated to reporters he preferred a established hierarchical structure, with a sole leader elected to take charge, and implied he’d be prepared to compete if members chose this system.

However, in an discussion, Sultana said she was supporting a group decision-making process, with crucial policies being taken by rank-and-file supporters – those not already serving as political representatives. She noted that she did not think parties should be controlled by “individual figures”. She did, nonetheless, indicate she would be ready to compete opposing Corbyn if there was a election for a sole leader.

Problematic Environment

Although Sultana insisted she and the former Labour leader were on good terms – they had, she said, discussed how they wanted the conference to be “a positive, joyful experience where members are enabled” – she was scathing about certain supporters and group leaders whom she thinks are briefing against her. She declined to identify individuals, but it is understood that relations between her backers and Corbyn’s ex-senior aide Karie Murphy are particularly fraught.

The Coventry South MP – who abandoned Labour in July – also mentioned that there was still a “negative atmosphere” among certain members of Your Party, which had caused “harassment, threats and false accusations” and “planned interference”.

Protest and Internal Divisions

Tensions came to a head around lunchtime when it was revealed Sultana would not attend the first day of the conference, in solidarity with prospective attendees who had been refused access from the event due to connections to other leftwing groups – notably the the political group. Her representative labeled this a “witch-hunt”, stating: “It is essential to create a party that welcomes all socialists.”

Supporters of Corbyn – who mistakenly stated on Saturday morning that the Socialist Workers party was registered with the Electoral Commission – were incensed, alleging Sultana had attempted seeking to orchestrate a “distraction”. They believe allowing multiparty membership would cause disruption and heighten group conflicts which already seems to have hampered the fledgling movement.

On the status of the Socialist Workers party, one Corbyn ally said: “It might not be registered with the regulatory body but it is nonetheless a political group. The name speaks for itself.”

Concern Among Delegates

A significant number of participants were annoyed that Saturday’s activities descended into group conflicts when they would have rather address important topics such as the financial challenges and migration policy, as well as preparing for next year’s local elections.

The new organization is has not determined if it will run its own nominees or support independent socialists and some supporters believe the party will have not succeeded if it is not listed for election as an option besides Labour.

Expectation for The Second Day

The result is unclear if the event can be recovered on Sunday, when the results of crucial polls – such as the party’s permanent name and organizational system – will be revealed. Sultana plans to attend and speak to the crowd, which has comforted those who still hope for unity.

However most delegates remained despondent as they shuffled out of the meeting space into a wet evening in Liverpool on Saturday. It's possible the atmosphere of the day was summed up by an individual attendee, who said: “My generous drink is turning into a entire container.”