Bosnia’s general election held on Sunday was genuinely competitive and passed without major incidents or disruptions, assessed Bruce Berton, Head of the Organisation for the Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Mission in Bosnia.

“While we await the final results, certain key races are clear. Thus we also congratulate those who won and thank all who participated in the vote, including observers who worked to maintain a fair and transparent process,” said Berton, congratulating the citizens on exercising their democratic right to vote.

Pointing out that the elections were “genuinely competitive and passed without major incident or disruption,” Berton warned that the international observers did notice certain legal and systemic shortcomings, which included biased media coverage and attempts to influence voters

“We call on the competent authorities to investigate all allegations of fraud and misconduct and urge political leaders to take measures to restore citizens’ trust in the electoral process. Political leaders must also now ensure that election results are implemented through the formation of legislative and executive authorities at all levels, and address the most important and pressing issues to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s citizens,” the OSCE’s official said, concluding, “Constructive political dialogue is necessary for any progress to be made.”

Bosnia's general election took place on Sunday when the citizens cast their ballots for the members of the state Presidency, RS president and vice presidents as well as the members of the state, entity and cantonal parliaments. The Central Election Commission (CEC) said the voter turnout was 53.36 percent.