During a state visit in Brazil, Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia faced an unexpected coup led by his own Imperial Bodyguard back in his home country. This internal strife emerged as the bodyguard took control of the capital, Addis Ababa, asserting their authority in defiance of the emperor, who was abroad. As Selassie's trip drew attention to Ethiopia on an international stage, the coup revealed the fragility of his regime and the deep-seated issues within the government that had been simmering before this bold move.

Crown Prince Asfa Wossen, who was positioned as the heir to the throne, became the focal point of this coup as the bodyguard declared him the new emperor. The military and political landscapes of Ethiopia were marked by ongoing tensions, and the bodyguard's actions represented a significant shift in their loyalty, highlighting divisions within the army and broader societal discontent with Selassie's rule. The news of the coup sent ripples throughout the country, stirring unrest and uncertainty among the populace while garnering global media attention.

As reports of the unfolding event reached Selassie in Brazil, he faced a rapid reassessment of his power and strategy. This unprecedented act was not merely an internal conflict; it showcased underlying issues that affected governance and stability within Ethiopia. The aftermath would influence Selassie’s subsequent policies and attitudes towards military loyalty and governance as he worked to reclaim his authority and consolidate power against the backdrop of an evolving political landscape.