On the other hand, all it would take to re-engage it would be a little wiring work. As it stands, @Monster Truck's Fernandes is little different than a P/J bass with the bridge pickup's volume turned all the way down. If it were my call, I'd say it still technically qualifies, but I'm not the one who decides such things.
I see where you're coming from. Happy to go with the herd on this one. If he hadn't mentioned it we'd have never known, and there is no mandatory disclosure...
Open minded as always..
)