Mahatma Gandhi doesn't work when the tools of the apparatchik and the people aren't with you, or when the dominant force is unreasonable and disrespects the rule of law.
I'd prefer to stay in the back where it's more vulnerable. 100m away from it with a tandem AT weapon ready. But honestly we can't always get what we want.
Today was predictable, but that only accentuates Navalny's bravery. He knew persecution was highly likely, and he did not flinch.