Full Breakdown
Internal Struggle for Control in Your Party: Corbyn vs. Sultana
1/14/2026, 7:51:30 PM
Overview of the Conflict
Your Party, a new left-wing political organization co-founded by Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana, is currently experiencing a significant internal conflict as both leaders vie for influence over its Central Executive Committee (CEC). The party's founding conference in November established a collective leadership model, aiming to prevent a singular power struggle. However, disagreements have surfaced regarding the direction and vision of the party, leading to a split characterized as a "proxy war" between Corbyn and Sultana.
Key Figures and Their Positions
Jeremy Corbyn, the former leader of the Labour Party, has expressed dissatisfaction with his name being included on the Grassroots Left slate, which Sultana announced as a candidate list for the CEC. Corbyn's team indicated that he had requested his name be removed, fearing it would imply his endorsement of the slate's more radical policies. In contrast, Sultana has positioned herself as a champion for member democracy, advocating for a party that prioritizes grassroots involvement and fights for working-class interests.
The Grassroots Left Slate
The Grassroots Left slate, backed by Sultana, calls for significant changes, including the end of private ownership of production and a shift towards democratic worker control of the economy. This slate aims to distinguish Your Party from the Green Party and provide a robust opposition to capitalist parties, a goal they believe Corbyn failed to achieve during his leadership of Labour. Critics within the party worry that this radical approach may alienate potential voters, while supporters argue it is essential for creating a mass socialist movement.
Official Statements and Responses
Sultana stated, “Members didn’t join to be spectators while decisions are stitched up at the top. This slate is about taking back control and building a party that fights for working people.” Meanwhile, sources close to Corbyn emphasized his intention to present a different vision for Your Party, aiming to build a diverse and broad-based movement. A spokesperson for Corbyn remarked that he would outline his plans soon, focusing on community organizers, trade unionists, and anti-racist activists.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
There is a notable discrepancy regarding the endorsement of candidates within the Grassroots Left slate. While some candidates have publicly aligned with Sultana's vision, others, like independent councillor Michael Lavalette, have distanced themselves from the slate, indicating a lack of formal affiliation. This situation raises questions about the unity and coherence of the party's direction as it approaches its internal elections.
What's Next for Your Party
Nominations for the CEC are open until January 16, with elections concluding on February 26. The final composition of the CEC will be determined by the party's 50,000 members, who will also decide on leadership roles within the committee. As the internal election campaign unfolds, the ongoing rivalry between Corbyn and Sultana will likely shape the future trajectory of Your Party, with implications for its identity and electoral strategy.
