Franjo Tudjman Was the first President Of Croatia. That role began when he took office in May 1990 as head of the Presidency of socialist-era Croatia. His position shifted after a fresh constitution arrived on December 22 that year, marking a break from past structures. One term carried him into leadership of a sovereign nation soon after. Office held without pause till his passing in 1999 shaped nearly a decade of national direction. The path from regional leader to figurehead of independence unfolded quickly under his guidance.