The New Left's Launch Conference Reveals Few Evidence of a Fresh Start

As the notion of a recent leftwing party fronted by the former Labour leader and Zarah Sultana was initially proposed in the summer, it garnered immense interest that countless individuals showed enthusiasm in becoming members.

Although it was quickly beset by internal conflicts – its founders rowed bitterly over its early governance and revenue strategy – many hoped this weekend's inaugural conference would herald a renewed effort.

Disappointing First Day

Many of the participants are people who left the Labour party, disappointed by the policies of the present administration and seeking a political home as they are concerned by the growing influence of the rival party.

While preparations for the party's first official gathering were finalised, Sultana and Corbyn appeared to resolved their differences. Appearing at a progressive event in Manchester last month, Sultana jokingly compared the pair to the Gallagher brothers, remarking: “I’m here to tell you the project is moving forward.”

Yet when the entrances to the event venue in Liverpool opened on Saturday morning, Sultana was noticeably missing. As Corbyn gave his introductory speech, she was drinking a warm beverage in a coffee shop about a short distance from the location.

Governance Disagreement

The situation revealed there was little agreement on how the party ought to be governed. Corbyn informed the press he preferred a established hierarchical structure, with a single individual elected to take charge, and indicated he’d be inclined to stand if members chose this option.

In contrast, in an interview, Sultana said she was advocating for a group decision-making process, with key decisions being made by lay members – those not presently working as elected officials. She commented that she did not think parties should be controlled by “sole personalities”. She did, nevertheless, suggest she would be willing to stand in competition with Corbyn if there was a election for a single leader.

Toxic Culture

Despite Sultana claiming she and the former Labour leader were maintaining a positive relationship – they had, she said, discussed how they desired the conference to be “an uplifting and happy event where members feel empowered” – she was scathing about some of his allies and party administrators whom she believes are undermining her. She declined to identify individuals, but it is known that the relationship between her followers and Corbyn’s former chief of staff Karie Murphy are especially tense.

The politician – who abandoned Labour in July – also mentioned that there was still a “toxic culture” among certain members of Your Party, which had led to “harassment, threats and false accusations” and “intentional disruption”.

Protest and Internal Divisions

Tensions reached a peak around the afternoon when it was revealed Sultana would not attend the opening day of the conference, in alliance with prospective attendees who had been refused access from the event due to affiliations with other leftwing groups – especially the Socialist Workers party. Her representative called this a “witch-hunt”, adding: “We must build a party that is inclusive of all progressives.”

Allies of Corbyn – who wrongly asserted on Saturday morning that the the group was registered with the regulatory body – were incensed, accusing Sultana of attempting to stage a “distraction”. They believe accepting overlapping memberships would create chaos and heighten group conflicts which already appears to have crippled the fledgling movement.

Concerning the standing of the SWP, one supporter of Corbyn said: “Although it isn't registered with the Electoral Commission but it is still a party. The name speaks for itself.”

Concern Among Attendees

Many delegates were annoyed that Saturday’s proceedings became dominated by internal disputes when they would have preferred to focus on key issues such as the cost of living crisis and migration policy, as well as strategising for next year’s regional polls.

The group is yet to decide if it will run its own nominees or endorse non-aligned progressives and some supporters believe the party will have fallen short if it is not listed for election as an alternative to Labour.

Expectation for The Second Day

The result is unclear if the conference can be rescued on Sunday, when the outcomes of important ballots – such as the official title and organizational system – will be declared. Sultana is scheduled to participate and deliver an address, which has encouraged those who still hope for cohesion.

However many participants remained discouraged as they departed of the event venue into a rainy Liverpool night on Saturday. Maybe the mood of the day was expressed by one participant, who said: “My substantial beverage is transforming into a entire container.”