Famous leader dashing off to avoid first strike (6)

I believe the answer is:

gandhi

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'famous leader' is the definition.
'gandhi' can be an answer for 'leader' (Gandhi is an example). I'm unsure of the 'famous' bit.

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for gandhi that I've seen before include "Indian nationalist and spiritual leader" , "popular leader" , "Leader of Indian independence movement" , "Peaceful protester" , "Peacemaker" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

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