At the recent founding conference of Your Party, former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn emphasized the importance of unity, urging over 2,000 delegates to come together. Despite rumors of disruptions, the event proceeded smoothly, avoiding the internal conflicts that have plagued the party since its inception.
Corbyn, who spoke passionately about the need to avoid division, highlighted the opportunity to advocate for socialism and social justice. However, tensions arose when Zarah Sultana, a former Labour MP and co-founder of the party, expressed disappointment over expulsions just before the conference. She criticized the actions as contrary to the party’s values of inclusivity and condemned what she referred to as a “witch hunt.”
Following a temporary boycott, Sultana eventually delivered her keynote speech, acknowledging some missteps in the party’s establishment process. Despite internal criticisms, there was a sense of triumph as members voted for a new leadership structure, opting for a committee of ordinary members instead of a single leader, a deviation from Corbyn’s preference.
In a final address, Corbyn announced the party’s official name, “Your Party,” emphasizing the principles, rules, and enthusiasm that define the organization. He reiterated the importance of unity among delegates as they navigate a new leadership model. The conference concluded with a call for collective action and a reminder of the significant impact their decisions will have on the nation.
As the party embarks on this new chapter, the challenge remains to see if the call for unity will resonate among its members and supporters.