The OSCE described as unacceptable a referendum organised by the Croat nationalist party, the HDZ, and the party could face penalties as a result.

BBC: OSCE praises Bosnia elections

Many might consider such words uncontroversial, but the HDZ reacted furiously.

ECONOMIST: The problems caused when two leaders fall out

In the Croat areas of the country the results suggest that the nationalist HDZ, which has long held power in a firm grip, could also be losing ground.

BBC: NEWS | Europe | Serbs block road to Bosnian unity

President Tudjman was still enjoying widespread popularity as the founding father of Croatian independence, and after 1995 the HDZ was also benefiting from Croatia's success in recapturing areas of the country previously controlled by Serb forces.

BBC: Analysis: Mesic's return