Dhaka, Feb. 8 -- Civil Aviation and Tourism Advisor 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.

Speaking at a media briefing in Dhaka on Sunday, he said that at least 22 ministers and advisors 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 advisor 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 de...