The Corbyn-Sultana First Gathering Displays Few Sign of a Fresh Start

As the notion of a fresh progressive party spearheaded by the former Labour leader and the Coventry South MP was originally suggested in the summer, it was so popular that a vast number showed enthusiasm in joining.

Although it was almost immediately plagued by internal conflicts – its founders disagreed intensely over its early governance and revenue strategy – many expected this weekend's launch gathering would represent a new beginning.

Concerning Opening Day

A significant portion of the attendees are ex-supporters of Labour, dissatisfied with the direction of the present administration and seeking a ideological base as they worry about the increasing popularity of the rival party.

When arrangements for the party's inaugural conference were finalised, Sultana and Corbyn appeared to buried the hatchet. Speaking at a leftwing festival in Manchester last month, Sultana lightheartedly likened the duo to the Gallagher brothers, remarking: “Let me assure you the party is active again.”

Yet when the doors to the event venue in Liverpool were unlocked on Saturday morning, Sultana was conspicuously missing. As Corbyn gave his introductory speech, she was drinking a warm beverage in a cafe about a short distance from the location.

Leadership Division

It became evident there was little agreement on how the party ought to be governed. Corbyn informed the press he supported a traditional leadership model, with one person elected to take charge, and suggested he’d be prepared to compete if members chose this approach.

But, in an conversation, Sultana said she was supporting a group decision-making process, with important choices being taken by lay members – those not presently working as MPs or councillors. She added that she did not think parties should be run by “individual figures”. She did, nonetheless, suggest she would be willing to stand against Corbyn if there was a contest for a sole leader.

Negative Atmosphere

Although Sultana insisted she and the former Labour leader were getting on “really well” – they had, she said, talked about how they wanted the conference to be “an uplifting and happy event where members gain confidence” – she was highly critical about various associates and party administrators whom she thinks are undermining her. She would not specify who, but it is understood that relations between her supporters and Corbyn’s ex-senior aide Karie Murphy are particularly fraught.

The Coventry South MP – who defected from Labour in July – further stated that there was still a “negative atmosphere” among some within Your Party, which had led to “pressure, coercion and defamation” and “intentional disruption”.

Protest and Group Conflicts

Conflict escalated significantly around lunchtime when it was revealed Sultana would avoid the initial sessions of the conference, in support for would-be delegates who had been denied entry from the event due to membership in other progressive movements – especially the the political group. Her representative labeled this a “political persecution”, adding: “It is essential to create a party that embraces every left-wing supporter.”

Supporters of Corbyn – who wrongly asserted on Saturday morning that the Socialist Workers party was officially recognized by the Electoral Commission – were furious, claiming Sultana was attempting to stage a “sideshow”. They feel accepting overlapping memberships would create chaos and worsen internal divisions which already looks to have hindered the emerging organization.

Concerning the standing of the SWP, one Corbyn ally said: “It might not be registered with the regulatory body but it is clearly an organization. Its title indicates its nature.”

Concern Among Participants

Many delegates were frustrated that Saturday’s events turned into internal disputes when they would have preferred to discuss crucial matters such as the cost of living crisis and immigration, as well as strategising for next year’s municipal votes.

The new organization is still considering if it will field its own candidates or back socialist independents and some participants feel the party will have not succeeded if it is not listed for election as an alternative to Labour.

Optimism for Day Two

It remains to be seen if proceedings can be recovered on Sunday, when the results of crucial polls – such as the official title and leadership structure – will be announced. Sultana is scheduled to participate and deliver an address, which has comforted those who still wish for cohesion.

Yet many participants remained discouraged as they made their way of the event venue into a rainy Liverpool night on Saturday. It's possible the sentiment of the day was summed up by one attendee, who said: “My substantial beverage is transforming into a entire container.”