Michel Micombero, who had ruled Burundi since 1966, was overthrown on November 1, 1976, through a largely bloodless coup d'état. Amid increasing discontent within the country, particularly among the military and the populace, Jean-Baptiste Bagaza, who was then serving as the deputy to Micombero, orchestrated the coup that would reshape Burundian politics. Unlike typical coups that are characterized by violence and chaos, this takeover was executed with a surprising degree of order, avoiding bloodshed and major civil unrest.

The context of this military coup can be traced back to Micombero's controversial governance, which was marked by a harsh crackdown on opposition forces and ethnic tensions, particularly between the Hutu and Tutsi communities. His regime had faced numerous challenges, including economic difficulties and social upheaval, which led to disillusionment among the military and citizens alike. The coup unfolded in Bujumbura, the capital of Burundi, where soldiers loyal to Bagaza quickly took control of key installations and announced the end of Micombero's rule.

In the aftermath, Jean-Baptiste Bagaza declared himself president and initiated a period of military rule. His leadership would eventually come to shape Burundi's political landscape for years to follow, as he implemented various reforms and sought to stabilize the nation. However, tensions remained, rooted in the historical ethnic divisions within Burundi, inevitably influencing the nation’s future political and social trajectory.