A new group has launched a grassroots campaign to put democracy at the heart of Britain’s newest left party – just as it has descended into chaos. The Democratic Bloc, formed by would-be members of Your Party, aims to ensure the fledgling group is genuinely democratic, member-led and rooted in the struggles of working people.
‘Your Party’ must be fully democratic and rooted in communities
The campaign is calling for members to build the party from the ground up, with democracy as its foundation, ensuring it never repeats the stitch ups and ‘jobs for the boys’ characterised by Labour. It will bring members together to shape proposals for the party’s founding conference, ensuring the voice of ordinary activists sets the direction from day one.
Its key demands include:
- One Member, One Vote in all elections and decisions, ensuring every member has an equal say.
- Conference sovereignty, with no leadership or committee able to override members’ decisions.
- Open motions and debate, with members able to submit, amend and prioritise policies through a transparent online system.
- Fair membership fees, with concessions for young and low-income members, and funds shared fairly between national, regional, and local levels.
- Democratic accountability, with leaders and officials elected by and accountable to the membership.
- Trade union participation without domination, ending block votes but strengthening links to workplace struggles.
- Open candidate selection, ensuring MPs and councillors are accountable to members, not guaranteed safe seats.
- Dual membership with transparency, allowing collaboration with other democratic parties while protecting the integrity of our structures.
A ‘once-in-a-generation opportunity’ for real change
A spokesperson for The Democratic Bloc said:
This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a new party on the left. But a party without democracy is just another machine for a few at the top. We want to make sure this new party is different, that it belongs to its members, that it is accountable, and that it never repeats the mistakes of Labour. Our campaign is about making sure democracy is written into the DNA of this movement from day one.
The campaign is inviting members and supporters to get involved by joining discussions, helping draft proposals, and organising for the founding conference. However, with Your Party now in chaos, it remains to be seen if this will happen.
Featured image via the Canary
