Abdus Sattar, who became the President of Bangladesh after the assassination of his predecessor, was viewed as facing increasing challenges due to political instability and economic difficulties. His administration struggled to maintain order amid rampant corruption, political squabbles, and rising social tensions. In this context of unrest, Lieutenant General Hussain Muhammad Ershad orchestrated a coup that occurred without violent clashes, emphasizing its 'bloodless' nature. Ershad, who had been serving as the Army Chief, took swift action by suspending the Constitution and declaring martial law soon after seizing control.

The coup was justified on the grounds of restoring order and governance, with Ershad promising a return to democracy. However, this led to years of military rule that would define political dynamics in Bangladesh. The imposition of martial law allowed Ershad to consolidate power, manipulate political processes, and suppress dissent. His rule, characterized by both authoritarian measures and attempts at political reformation, affected the country's trajectory for years to come, particularly in the realm of democracy and civil rights.

Under Ershad's administration, economic policies were introduced that aimed to stabilize the economy, yet they often led to further dissent. Political opposition and civil society began to mobilize against the military regime, leading to a complex interplay of resistance and governance. This era laid the groundwork for the eventual transition back to a parliamentary democracy in the late 1980s, but the political legacy of Ershad continued to be felt long after he was ousted.