Solicitor-generals Engku Nor Faizah Engku Atek and Zauyah Be Loth Khan said the decision was in line with Thomas’ assurance at the start of his appointment last June to stay away from cases which would be interpreted as conflict of interest on his part.

They said decisions on such cases would be taken by them jointly in consultation with other senior officers in the AGC.

Thomas was part of Lim’s legal team when the then Penang chief minister was charged with two counts of corruption involving his purchase of a bungalow.

Engku Nor Faizah and Zauyah said in cases where Thomas decided not to remove himself, he would declare his interest before participating in any decision.

Lim’s trial was adjourned to Sept 3, when the AGC was expected to decide on whether to withdraw the charges following an application by his lawyers.