Zarah Sultana has charged prominent individuals in the newly established party she is creating alongside Jeremy Corbyn with executing a ‘witch hunt’ aimed at removing left-wing activists.
Sultana chose to skip the inaugural day of the founding conference for the initiative, which is currently operating under the banner of Your Party, following the expulsion of several individuals affiliated with the Socialist Workers Party.
According to party representatives, these expulsions were implemented due to violations of regulations that prohibit members from being part of any other political party within the UK or abroad.
Allegations and Response
Sultana’s remarks surfaced as Corbyn addressed the conference, urging collective strength, asserting that the party now possesses ‘a distinct opportunity’ to establish ‘a socialist party that resonates with the masses.’
She mentioned that one of her staff members had also been denied accreditation for the event. Your Party officials acknowledged the absence of a pass but refuted claims that the decision was influenced by political motives.
A spokesperson for Sultana stated: ‘This witch hunt is unjustifiable – our objective must be to create a party that is open to all socialists.’
A spokesperson for Sultana stated: ‘This witch hunt is unjustifiable – our objective must be to create a party that is open to all socialists.’
When questioned about her assertion regarding the witch hunt, Sultana affirmed, ‘Absolutely.’ She further expressed her disgust at the behavior witnessed within the Labour Party, labeling it as a toxic environment that they aim to avoid replicating.
Concerns Over Bureaucratic Actions
Sultana pointed out that ‘anonymous and unaccountable bureaucrats’ have been ‘operating behind the scenes’ to dismiss individuals ‘without a vote from the membership.’
She emphasized that members from different groups ‘should not have to make a choice’ between their affiliation and involvement in ‘our new party.’
A spokesperson from Your Party responded, stating: ‘Individuals from another national political organization registered with Your Party in violation of clearly outlined membership rules – and these regulations were applied.
Focus on Democracy
‘Our focus is on facilitating a democratic founding conference where thousands of members can convene to discuss and resolve major issues.’ They added that this represents a political approach that is grassroots-oriented rather than top-down.
During his address, Corbyn acknowledged that the party’s tumultuous inception was not without its ‘errors’, a phase marked by frequent disagreements between Sultana and party leaders, along with the resignations of two MPs.
Adnan Hussain and Iqbal Mohamed parted ways within a week of one another, citing growing internal discord. Prior to their departure, both Hussain and Mohamed signed a letter expressing dissatisfaction with Sultana for not transferring an estimated £800,000 in Your Party donations managed by a company under her control.
Financial Matters
The funds are held by MoU Operations Ltd, which secured the initial rounds of donations while Your Party’s registration was underway.
Sultana has successfully transferred £600,000, ensuring any remaining balance will be settled ‘as soon as possible, once the legal matters are clarified.’
On Saturday, Corbyn stated: ‘Our party must unite, as fragmentation and discord do not benefit the constituents we aspire to serve.’
He also advocated for ‘public, democratic ownership’ of the water sector, led a chant for ‘free, free Palestine’, and urged party members to perpetually ‘fight for authentic socialism and genuine social justice.’
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