This follows allegations of nepotism that led to Baldev, the father-in-law of deputy chief minister Jagdeep Singh Deo, declining the position.

Kumaraendran now leads the six-member board, with former Bar Council president Fareed Gafoor retained as deputy chairman.

Jagdeep said Kumaraendran was selected as chairman due to his calibre and seniority.

Lawyer K Simon Murali was also selected as a new board member, replacing Harinder Malkit Singh.

Penang Bar chairman Carolyn Oh, Nagarethinam Rengasamy Pillai and Regina Amalorpava Mary Aboorvasamy are the other board members.

In moving a motion on appointments to the board, Jagdeep defended Baldev’s original nomination as chairman, citing his decades of experience as a lawyer in Penang.

“Baldev is the longest-serving and most senior lawyer in Penang. He has been a lawyer for (58) years. His appointment was based on his experience, and there was no issue for me,” he said.

“But he is my father-in-law, and I disclosed that in front of all of you (when he nominated Baldev at the last assembly meeting). Some parties claimed I did not disclose this outside the Dewan, but it was done here, it was clear. There is no issue for me.

“He is a senior lawyer, but he said, ‘I don’t need this.’ This is charity work, and he will not receive a single sen. This work is for the rakyat.

“Then I looked for another capable lawyer. Kumaraendran was a close friend of my late father. If you want to say there is a conflict of interest, what do you want me to do? He is an experienced and qualified lawyer.”

Responding to opposition members who asked why Baldev was replaced, Jagdeep said: “He himself chose to step down, and there is no problem with that.”

The motion to update the members was supported by executive councillor Daniel Gooi.

Urimai secretary-general Satees Muniandy had, among others, criticised Baldev’s initial appointment, questioning the transparency and fairness of the process.