The fledgling left-wing political group, Your Party, is set for a radical overhaul in its leadership structure after its founding figures were blocked from standing for the top job. Members have voted to adopt a collective leadership model headed by a non-MP, sidelining co-founders Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana from a direct leadership contest.
A New Direction: Collective Leadership Chosen
In a decisive move at the party's annual conference in Liverpool, members opted for a collective leadership committee over the traditional model of a single leader. This outcome, decided by a narrow margin, prevents a potential head-to-head battle between Mr Corbyn and Ms Sultana. The new structure will feature a chair and deputy chair, with the explicit rule that MPs are barred from these roles.
The results of the leadership election are scheduled to be announced on February 26. This new committee will guide the party forward, marking a significant departure from the personalities that launched it.
Internal Strife and Public Unity
Despite public messages of unity, Your Party has been plagued by internal divisions and high-profile resignations almost since its inception. The leadership conference itself was overshadowed by controversy, including accusations of a toxic culture and a witch hunt.
In an extraordinary display of discord, Zarah Sultana boycotted the first day of the conference, levelling serious allegations against the organisation. This occurred just hours after Jeremy Corbyn had insisted the party was united.
The infighting has led to departures. MP Iqbal Mohamed resigned citing false allegations and smears, following a clash with Ms Sultana over his gender-critical views. His exit came shortly after Adnan Hussain withdrew from the party's steering process, pointing to factionalism and veiled prejudice against Muslims.
Electoral Strategy and Future Prospects
Your Party has confirmed it will not field candidates in the local elections this May. Instead, it plans to support community independents who align with its socialist values on issues like council housing and social services. The party's stance on elections in Scotland and Wales for the Holyrood and Senedd will be decided by members in those nations.
Despite its turbulent start, pollsters suggest the new group could pose a significant threat to Labour. A Find Out Now poll from the summer indicated Your Party could draw level with Labour in voter support, each on 15%, with Reform UK leading at 34% and the Conservatives on 17%.
In a New Year message, Jeremy Corbyn urged supporters to embrace hope, framing 2026 as the year to demonstrate a radical, socialist alternative to the political establishment. The coming months will test whether the party's new collective leadership can heal its wounds and translate its vision into electoral impact.
