Aviation adviser defends role as Biman chief

Civil Aviation and Tourism Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin has defended his appointment as chairman of the board of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, saying the move does not breach any laws and has precedent, reports bdnews24.com.
Speaking at a media briefing in Dhaka on Sunday, he said that at least 22 ministers and advisers had previously held the position, adding that even prime ministers had served as Biman board chairman in the past.
"I am the 23rd. I have not done anything outside the law," he said, responding to criticism over his dual role as adviser to the civil aviation ministry and chairman of the national carrier's board.
Bashir was appointed Biman board chairman on Aug 26 last year under the interim government, a decision that sparked debate. He also serves as adviser to the commerce ministry.
He said his tenure had helped turn Biman into a profitable organisation, citing lower fares on some Middle Eastern routes and what he described as an additional Tk 1.2 billion in profit.