On August 19, the junta in Bangkok will lay a Hobson's choice before Thais by way of a referendum on the constitution that has been recently drafted under the military's auspices.
By offering the illusion of an alternative, the military has seemingly calculated that a show can be made of democratic credentials in the eyes of Thais, and foreign allies, while also reducing the risks that come with a referendum.
Public approval will endow Thailand's 18th constitution since 1932 with a veneer of legitimacy that is now absent. The previous constitution worked well, producing the intended strong, stable administrations in place of weak, revolving coalition governments synonymous with Thailand's bouts of democracy. But it was not adequately insulated from emasculation by strong government and the failings of individuals and institutions that were supposed to keep rulers in check.
The new constitution's response is to impose more restrictive rules on elected politicians, while giving a senate dominated by appointees extensive powers.
This is likely to result in weak, coalition governments unable to challenge the power of the military or the bureaucracy. It recalls the 1980s, when a military-backed government - admittedly one of Thailand's most competent - ran the country while politicians were corralled in a powerless parliament.
If the vote goes against this constitution, the generals promise to impose a charter modified as they see fit. That may not be popular, but Thailand will still have a constitution the military deems necessary for a general election, due in December.
The junta is urging Thais to display their patriotism by supporting a constitution that reaffirms the revered monarch as head of state. Coincidentally, 19 million copies of the constitution being distributed to the public are bound in yellow - the king's birthday colour.