RMDs to non-employee elected officials?

[EGB]

Facts : Governmental plan covers non-employee, elected officials. Though I realize the RMD rules generally apply to governmental plans, how would they apply, if at all, to a non-employee, elected official, that is a participant in the plan? 401(a)(9) and its regulations speak in terms of "employees,", not "participants."

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.