Jeremy Corbyn calls for unity as his new Democratic Socialist Party holds inaugural conference, aiming to challenge Labour from the left
LIVERPOOL: Veteran socialist Jeremy Corbyn urged his new political party to unite during its inaugural conference on Saturday.
The former Labour leader declared they were founding a new Democratic Socialist Party to challenge power in British society.
Corbyn acknowledged the party must overcome internal divisions to serve the people they aim to represent.
His appeal follows a rocky start for “Your Party”, which he launched with ex-Labour MP Zarah Sultana in July.
Four independent MPs initially joined but two later quit amid disputes between Corbyn and Sultana.
The 76-year-old politician described the party as a mass democratic movement with 50,000 members.
However, experts note the Greens under new leader Zack Polanski are attracting most disaffected left-wing voters.
A recent YouGov poll showed only 12% of Britons would consider voting for Corbyn’s party.
Labour has lost popularity among left-wing voters due to its immigration crackdown and Gaza stance.
Former Labour councillor Stuart Hill joined Your Party enthusiastically, calling Labour completely ineffectual.
Conference members will decide the party’s official name and leadership structure.
UK politics has fragmented with Liberal Democrats, Reform and Greens all gaining parliamentary seats.
Labour recently adopted left-wing measures including minimum wage increases and a wealth tax.
Some Labour MPs argue their party can still remain the natural home of the left despite challenges. – AFP
