On September 1, 1981, a bloodless coup d'état unfolded in the Central African Republic, orchestrated by General André Kolingba against President David Dacko. This political maneuver came amid rising concerns over Dacko's leadership and the increasing instability within the nation. David Dacko had previously been exiled and returned to power in 1979, but his administration faced significant challenges, including economic difficulties and deteriorating social order. Kolingba, who was the Chief of Staff of the armed forces, responded to the mounting discontent by mobilizing military forces to seize key government installations in the capital, Bangui. The coup succeeded without bloodshed, with Kolingba taking control of the government and implementing measures aimed at restoring order and addressing the pressing issues that had plagued Dacko's presidency.

Following the coup, Kolingba established a transitional government, promoting himself as a leader focused on national stability. Initial reactions to the coup were largely positive among segments of the population who had grown weary of Dacko's rule. Kolingba's government promised reforms and a crackdown on corruption, positioning itself as a necessary response to the failures of the previous administration. While Kolingba sought to consolidate power and enhance his military's presence in governance, the implications of the coup extended beyond immediate political changes, paving the way for a prolonged military influence in Central African politics.