He refuses to step out of character when he's in it.

Became president in 1992 and refused to step down, even when forced into exile by the Taliban.

If he refuses to step aside now, his colleagues have a duty to force the issue.

He refuses to step on a scale in front of witnesses.

And three times now, most recently this week, the cardinal has felt compelled to explain why he refuses to step down.

If the judge refuses to step aside, the trial will almost certainly go forward under his oversight.

Yet both refused to step aside to avoid splitting the conservative vote.

When the judge refused to step aside, the issue was raised on appeal.

Refusing to step into water more than knee- deep was childish.

But the general refused to step down, forcing the President into hiding.