New UK Party Opts for Collective Leadership
Your Party, a newly established left-wing political entity in the United Kingdom, has officially adopted a collective leadership structure following a vote at its inaugural conference in Liverpool. The decision, which saw members choose a committee-led model over a single leader, effectively sidesteps a potential leadership battle between the party's prominent co-founders, Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana.
The vote, held on Sunday, November 30, 2025, resulted in 51.6% of participating members endorsing the collective leadership model, while 48.4% favored a single elected leader. This outcome was announced to delegates gathered in Liverpool, marking a significant moment for the party which was formally registered with the Electoral Commission on September 30, 2025.
Leadership Structure and Preferences
Under the newly adopted model, Your Party will be steered by a Central Executive Committee (CEC). This committee will comprise non-MP members, with a chair, vice-chair, and spokesperson providing public political leadership. Notably, Members of Parliament are explicitly barred from holding the chair and deputy chair roles on the CEC.
The leadership vote highlighted differing preferences among the party's co-founders. Jeremy Corbyn, the former Labour leader, had publicly expressed his support for a sole leader model, indicating he would have stood for the position. Conversely, Zarah Sultana, an independent MP, championed the collective leadership approach, advocating for 'maximum member democracy' from the party's inception. Sultana had initially preferred a co-leadership model, which was not put to a vote.
Internal Dynamics and Party Formation
The formation of Your Party, announced in July 2025 by Corbyn and Sultana, has been characterized by internal disagreements and tensions. Reports indicate disputes over various aspects, including a contested launch of paid membership and questions surrounding democratic accountability. Sultana notably boycotted the first day of the inaugural conference in protest over the expulsion of several members.
Despite these internal challenges, the party claims a membership of approximately 50,000. Delegates at the conference also voted to make 'Your Party' its permanent name, choosing it over alternatives such as 'Popular Alliance' and 'For The Many'. Furthermore, members approved a proposal to allow dual membership with other political groups, subject to ratification by the CEC.
Future Outlook
The adoption of collective leadership sets a distinct course for Your Party, aiming to differentiate itself from traditional political structures. Elections for the Central Executive Committee are slated to begin in the new year, with results expected by February 27. The party's constitution also outlines a review of leadership arrangements at the end of 2027, which could include reconsidering co-leadership or single leadership models.
7 Comments
Comandante
This is genuinely progressive. A breath of fresh air for UK politics.
Leonardo
Collective leadership is just a way to avoid accountability. Who's in charge?
Raphael
Acknowledging the party's internal tensions is important, though this collective structure could either exacerbate or mitigate future disagreements.
Leonardo
It's good they're trying a new model to differentiate themselves, but the close vote shows significant internal division from the start.
Michelangelo
This party is already a mess with internal squabbles. Collective leadership won't fix that.
BuggaBoom
Excellent decision! No more leadership battles, just focus on policy.
Loubianka
The idea of member-led politics is appealing, but a committee might struggle to present a strong, unified message to the electorate.